Nikki Salvatico
Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year
General Wayne Elementary, Malvern, PA
Grade 1, All subjects

My teaching philosophy
My teaching philosophy is to recognize each child's unique gifts and talents and create an environment which allows them to flourish and grow to become life-long learners and feel comfortable in taking risks in learning.

My philosophy in action
My students are guided to utilize their strengths and apply them to their learning. That may look like a child lying on the floor, wrapped in a blanket writing a story. This allows that child to receive the necessary sensory stimulation needed to deter internal distractions. Thus the child is free to engage in a meaningful learning experience as well as successfully completing a task.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
My greatest teaching accomplishment occurs at the end of each year when I get the privilege to see my student's growth over the year. It is always priceless.

The most critical issues facing educators today
No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

Ways to resolve this issue
I believe we as educators need to team up with our political leaders to help revisit and review NCLB. We need to use the data we have so far, utilize that data to help us review areas of weaknesses and strengths in NCLB and allow that data to help us make educated decisions. We also need to recognize that a one size fits all test does not meet every child's needs. Therefore, since NCLB was created to allow EVERY child to succeed, re-evaluation is necessary since every child does not test well in exactly the same way. Educators and legislatures need to help by committing to work together to make sure no child is left behind.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
Your students' deserve your dedication and service. If you don't give your best, you have given up on your students.

One lesson every student should learn
Every student should learn that taking a risk can often result in recognizing a strength.

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