- February 7, 2025
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Each week the Port Orange Observer will highlight a teacher nominated for the title of Volusia County School District's 2019 Teacher of the Year.
Port Orange Elementary School teacher Nicole Sallese, who is currently an academic intervention educator, was nominated for the honor. She has been teaching at Port Orange Elementary for 10 years. Sallese was formerly a Port Orange Elementary student herself in the 80s.
Volusia County public schools each selected a Teacher of the Year in order to vie for the title of Volusia County School District's 2019 Teacher of the Year. This year, 71 winners were chosen by their peers. The current Volusia County Teacher of the Year is Jason Kester, who teaches culinary arts at Mainland High.
The 2019 district Teacher of the Year winner will be announced on Friday, Jan. 12, and will be nominated for the state Teacher of the Year program.
Answers have been edited for clarity and length.
1. How do you feel to be nominated?
I feel so honored to be nominated in a school filled with so many outstanding teachers.
2. Why did you want to be a teacher?
My mom went back to college to become a teacher when I was young. She was such an inspiration to me and being in her classroom volunteering, I knew it was something I loved too.
3. What is the most challenging part of teaching?
The most challenging part of teaching is meeting the social, emotional and educational needs of all students.
4. What is the most rewarding part of teaching?
The most rewarding thing about teaching are the smiles. When students smile at me it always reminds me of the positive impact that I have in their lives.
5. If you could tell students one thing what would it be?
I would tell them that I love them. I feel that being loved and building relationships, by caring about each other, is what helps everyone to grow.
