- December 24, 2024
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Denise Blumberg didn’t start her career in education. But it was students who led her to the field in the end.
In her early 20s, Blumberg worked in home health care, primarily caring for elderly patients diagnosed with long-term illnesses. It’s that job, she said in a statement to the Observer, which taught her the importance of patience, empathy and resilience. Then, she applied for a job in Volusia County, teaching high school students with long-term and short-term illnesses over the phone.
“During this time, the students in the program opened my eyes,” Blumberg said. “They taught me as I discovered my passion for teaching, helping students overcome obstacles, and helping them succeed academically.”
Blumberg is now in her 24th year of teaching. As an Exceptional Student Education teacher at her alma matter, Mainland High School, she works with juniors and seniors in their English Language Arts classes, as well as teaches the driving portion of Driver’s Ed after school and administers the test at the end of the semester course.
A native of Daytona Beach, she has taught at Mainland High School since 2010.
Being nominated as Mainland’s Teacher of the Year has given her a renewed sense of purpose and pride in why she chose to enter, and stay, in the field of education, she said.
“Teaching can be challenging at times, and it’s easy to lose sight of our impact amid the demands and challenges of our daily responsibilities,” Blumberg said. “Being recognized has reminded me of the value of our work and reaffirmed my commitment to supporting and inspiring students. All of our efforts make a difference!”
Her favorite thing about being a teacher is watching students flourish in the community as engaged and productive citizens, she said.
“I enjoy guiding them through essential milestones, whether they are seeking employment, applying to college, or planning for their future,” she said. “Supporting my students as they reach their goals and make meaningful contributions to society is one of the most fulfilling parts of my career.”
While teaching in the Hospital Homebound Program in her early teaching career, she worked with a high school student that was battling cystic fibrosis. His resilience, she said, was astounding.
“He constantly reminded me that his personal goal was to earn his high school diploma before his illness progressed,” Blumberg said. “His dedication to completing high school stood out and taught me the importance of perseverance and empathy, reinforcing that I should never give up on students, regardless of their circumstances.”
If she could share one piece of wisdom with her students, it would be to “invest in yourself.”
“Your education is one of the most valuable things you can achieve because it’s yours,” Blumberg said. “You earn it through your effort, dedication, and determination. It’s a foundation that stays with you, opening doors and giving you the tools to create your desired future.”
