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Over the past few years in the classroom, I’ve experienced moments of joy, exhaustion, and everything in between.
Since I began teaching in 2021, stepping into this role has been both a challenge and a privilege. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that great teachers learn and grow by having great role models.
For me, that role model has been Amanda Olson, the special education teacher at Stellar Elementary. The first day I met her, I immediately looked up to her for her poise and her fierce determination to provide every child with a quality education.
She has since become my mentor, role model, and friend. Amanda has helped me learn how to create a classroom where my students feel safe, engaged, and confident. Her mentorship has not only strengthened me as a teacher but has also contributed to real student impact.
When a new student, James, joined our kindergarten class partway through the year, he faced immense challenges transitioning into the school environment. James, who has autism, cried every morning at drop-off and struggled to even enter the building.
Instead of rushing the process, Amanda showed me the power of patience and presence. I watched her steadily build a relationship with him, finding what motivated him and helping him work toward the goal of staying in class for a full day. Thanks to her calm presence and deep commitment to meeting each student where they are, James blossomed.
Believing in our kids
By the end of the year, he was not only fully participating in class academically but had also become an integral part of our classroom community. The sound of James and his two best friends cackling with laughter was the best reward—and a true testament to what a fierce belief in kids can unlock.
Amanda has shown me the importance of having high expectations for kids while also meeting them where they are. She has taught me to use each student’s strengths to help them grow in areas where they have higher needs.
From her, I learned that motivating students often means stepping back, understanding what each child needs, and crafting a personalized plan to help them thrive. She taught me the importance of finding the “third way”—a creative solution that meets a student’s needs without lowering expectations.
Working with Amanda has reinforced for me that the best teachers don’t just teach content—they make kids feel seen, heard and understood.
To Amanda– and all the mentors who stand behind new teachers – thank you. Thank you for your patience, your wisdom, and for modeling what it means to truly show up for students.
Thank you for teaching me how to meet kids where they are, customize my instruction to their individual needs, and never lose sight of the fact that kids are kids—and that a healthy dose of fun each day matters. Most of all, thank you for believing in me during my first year and helping me on my way to becoming the teacher I want to be.
Because of you, I am a better teacher. And because of you, my students are better off too.
Annie Ela is a first grade teacher at Bruce Guadalupe Community School. Amanda Olson is a special education teacher at Stellar Elementary. Both are alumni of Teach For America Milwaukee. May 5 through May 9 is Teacher Appreciation Week.
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