Walsh University Teacher of the Month: Megan Zampino, Sandy Valley

NAME – Megan Zampino

SCHOOL – Sandy Valley Elementary

RESIDENCE – North Canton

HIGH SCHOOL ALMA MATER – St. Thomas Aquinas

COLLEGE – Walsh University (undergrad), American College of Education (graduate)

WHAT SUBJECTS DO YOU TEACH? – Third grade.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? – Making connections with my students is probably my absolute favorite part of my job. I love when they come in to tell me about their weekend, the bug they saw at the bus stop or how they plan on spending their evening. The bonds I form with my students give me such joy! I love when former students come back to visit me, and we reminisce about when I had him/her. However, my second favorite aspect of teaching is watching my students grow more confident in their abilities on a daily basis. Seeing them smile when they've grasped a concept is so fulfilling for not only them but for me.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR JOB? – Without a doubt, I would say time is the most challenging part of each day. There never seems to be enough hours in the day to accomplish my never-ending list of tasks on my to-do list.

WHAT SECRET TO SUCCESS WOULD YOU SHARE WITH STUDENTS? – I always stress to my students the importance of never giving up, even when things are difficult, because hard work will eventually pay off. At the beginning of the school year, I like to tell my students that in elementary school, I struggled with reading, and, honestly, did not enjoy the subject very much. The students are always surprised by this and, usually, someone will say "But you're a teacher?!" I tell them that I gained a love for reading, by reading more. The more I read and found genres that interested me, my love for reading blossomed

IS TEACHING KIDS THE SAME TODAY AS WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED? – I began teaching in 2013 and the biggest difference I see a decade later is in the area of technology. Students use technology with such ease, which allows us, as educators, to utilize websites and various educational apps more, which can help provide immediate feedback and individualized instruction to help meet students' needs.

YOUR STUDENTS WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW THAT YOU … – … After working all day, I love going to the gym to relieve stress. I find the gym extremely comforting and love the feeling of a great workout.

WHAT IS YOUR HIDDEN TALENT? – I would say I have no hidden talent, but I am very good at puzzles. I love sitting down at my dining room table to work on them, as I find them rewarding and love placing the last piece of the puzzle in.

IF YOU WEREN’T A TEACHER, YOU’D BE … – ... Since the age of 5, there is nothing more I wanted to be than a teacher. I would play school in my playroom as a child, and I was of course, always the teacher. However, if I had to choose a different profession I am fascinated with skin and would love to be a dermatologist.

AFTER A LONG DAY AT WORK, WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO RELAX? – When the weather is fitting, I love to work in my yard. When buying my house four years ago, I had to completely overhaul my backyard, as it was in need of love. I have transformed my yard into a relaxing paradise and love spending my summers hosting family and friends outside.

Other nominations:

Alliance

Marlisa Sams, science at Alliance Intermediate School − Mrs. Sams brings science to life for her students (and her peers) through engaging activities that spark curiosity and excitement. She is truly "mad about science" and her love for the subject hooks students of all needs and abilities and fuels them with the same passion for learning.

Kerry Varble, Language Arts at Alliance Middle School − Mrs. Varble is extremely dedicated to her students while maintaining appropriate expectations for all. In addition, to her regular teaching duties she works with students playing the violin during her lunchtime.

Canton Central Catholic

Charles Lozier, Central Catholic High School − Mr. Charles Lozier has been teaching at Central Catholic High School for decades. “Doc,” as he is affectionately known in the hallways, is well remembered as a tough and knowledgeable teacher, who prepares students for the highest-level collegiate science courses, but is likely remembered more for his wit, friendly banter and the laughter he shares with his students. He is one of our most visited teachers, as graduates love to steal a few moments of Doc’s time to laugh about the stories they share and often to thank him for preparing them so effectively for future success in science and in life.

Canton City

Georgia Crowl, first grade, Gibbs − Ms. Crowl comes to school each day with a single mission: to love and support her students! She works tirelessly to provide the academic and social-emotional supports needed so that her students can thrive.

Sarah Thistlethwaite, eighth grade math, Crenshaw − Sarah is a phenomenal teacher and has a great professional rapport with her students. She boosts the confidence of all of her students (and colleagues!) … even the ones who have struggled with math all their lives!

Canton Local

Becky Steinke, kindergarten − Becky Steinke exemplifies our district's mission of focusing on Every Child, Every Minute, Every Day. She has a genuine passion for teaching and child development and creates a fun learning environment that fosters a love for learning.

Jackson Local

Amanda Hunsicker, math instructional coach − Amanda enthusiastically supports the math instruction in all of the elementaries. She is extremely knowledgeable and well respected by her colleagues. Amanda works hard to make instruction and intervention more effective for all of our students while supporting the teachers. She is positive, dependable and has greatly influenced the math instruction in our district.

Lake Center Christian

JoAnn Barber, prekindergarten and elementary coach − Joann is an amazing educator. She is learner centric, focused on student growth, and always looking for opportunities to foster independence in students. Both parents and children express what an asset she is to the school community. This year she has taken on the additional role of an instructional coach, walking alongside of our teachers to facilitate best practice.

Emily Jacobs, mathematics − Emily demonstrates creativity, diligence, and concern in her math classes. She readily embraces new ideas on how to best teach math skills and she reaches out to each student to assure they understand the concepts.

Lake Local

Mrs. Megan Finch, fifth grade math/science − Mrs. Finch is a caring teacher that provides an atmosphere of service leadership and differentiated instruction with hands-on, real-world application. While studying fractions, students baked cookies and walked them over to the police and fire departments to carol and show their appreciation. Her unique approach towards learning inspires students to do their very best and have fun while learning.

Bryan Rector, school counselor − As if a day in the life of a school counselor isn’t busy enough, Bryan Rector also teaches a Teen Skills class to our seventh graders three times each day, assists with our Lake Middle High School Ski Club, supervises the Paint Ball Club, organizes and chaperones our class trips, and still finds some remaining time to coach one of our seventh-grade boys basketball teams! Needless to say, Mr. Rector has proven to be an invaluable resource for our teachers and young people while working to put a name to every face and make a difference with every student. We are fortunate to have a person in his position who is efficient, effective, and always positive in providing advice and direction to those who cross his path. And it’s always refreshing to come into contact with someone who clearly loves what he’s doing!

Louisville City

Laura Clutter, music − Laura Clutter is our Repository Teacher of the Month. Laura recently led our second grade Christmas Musical. Our students did an amazing job because of her guidance and patience. Laura is organized and creates a well-structured music room. She is a team player and is always willing to go above and beyond her duties. It is a pleasure to have Laura on our team at Louisville Elementary.

Marlington Local

MaryBeth Delcalzo, kindergarten − Mrs. Marybeth Delcalzo is a kindergarten teacher at Lexington Elementary. She has served Marlington Local Schools for over 40 years and is a lifelong learner. Mrs. Delcalzo is an asset to Marlington Local Schools — she serves as a mentor and coach to her colleagues, she prioritizes building relationships with students and their families, and she eagerly participates in new learning and growing as a teacher professional. Mrs. Delcalzo's classroom is a positive, caring, and student-centered environment. Her students are truly at the center of all she does, and it is a privilege to work and learn with her!

Dave Shirley, sixth grade, social studies − Mr. Shirley is a caring and thoughtful teacher. He creates memorable learning scenarios and songs that students remember even years later. Mr. Shirley has high standards and does everything he can to help his students reach those standards. We're lucky to have Mr. Shirley at MMS!

Massillon Local

Kari Pryor, second grade − Kari strives to meet the needs of all her students. She is constantly planning lessons that are presented in different ways so that students can hear, see, and do the information that they are learning. Her classroom environment is very calm, and she allows the students to choose where they would like to work in the classroom in order to do their best work. She has taught her students to be a true classroom family. They really support each other and care about each other's feelings and each other's learning. Gorrell Elementary is very lucky to have Kari Pryor as a teacher.

Jessica Mamidi, eighth grade math, algebra − Mrs. Mamidi does it all at our school! She leads the Academic Challenge team, is a member of BLT, is our building leader for Making Schools Works, and plans the 8th grade trip to New York City! Mrs. Mamidi exudes a calm presence and makes all students feel worthy and welcome. We are fortunate to have her at the Junior High!

Minerva Local

Sarah Cox, ELA − Mrs. Cox excels at building rapport and relationships with each and every student. She has a unique ability to connect with students of various backgrounds. Her passion for her students is evident in her daily interactions with them. For students who are in need of an inspiring and compassionate person to go to, Mrs. Cox is often the first person they reach out to.

North Canton City

Natalie Mizer, intervention specialist − Ms. Mizer has a classroom with a range of needs that she works very hard to meet. She cares about each child and doing what is best for them in their different circumstances. Thank you!

Kara Innes, reading specialist − Mrs. Innes has a wealth of knowledge to scaffold and support our students. Through collaborations with colleagues and building relationships with her students, Mrs. Innes has become a critical team member at North Canton Middle School.

Osnaburg Local

Mrs. Jennifer Martinez, Title I services − East Canton Elementary recognizes Mrs. Jennifer Martinez as the January Teacher of the Month. Mrs. Martinez serves as the Title I Teacher at East Canton Elementary, working with students in grades kindergarten through 5th. Mrs. Martinez has a passion for working with struggling readers and continually seeks out opportunities to expand her “toolbox” and extend her professional development. Advocating for students, collaborating with colleagues, and a genuine sense of humor are a few of the strengths Mrs. Martinez brings to our team. Thank you, Jen, for your passion and dedication to the students, staff, and community at East Canton Elementary!

Mrs. Dawn Vlacovsky, physical education − East Canton Schools recognizes Mrs. Dawn Vlacovsky as a January Teacher of the Month! Mrs. Vlacovsky teaches Physical Education at East Canton Middle School and Elementary, and she daily shares her passion for being physically active and healthy with the community at East Canton. Dawn provides exciting and innovative ways for the students to be physically active and learn about their health. Some of the initiatives Mrs. Vlacovsky has started and continues to use include a roller-skating unit, a partnership with the American Heart Association through Jump Rope for Heart campaign, and a student club called Jumpsters and Hoopsters through which students work on different “tricks” with a basketball and jump rope and perform at high school basketball games. Thank you Mrs. Vlacovsky for continually sharing your passions and talents with East Canton Schools!

Perry Local

Elizabeth Scaife, third grade, Lohr Elementary − Elizabeth is a teacher leader in the building, always willing to help in any situation. She continually seeks out opportunities for growth, learning new things to implement in the classroom and to share with others.

Plain Local

Sara Dawson, second grade − Mrs. Dawson has committed her entire professional career to Plain Local Schools! She has developed strong readers and great problem solvers. Her greatest contribution is to her culture of kindness she instills in each student. She is gentle, kind, and caring to every learner. Mrs. Dawson makes her students feel valued and successful every day! Avondale Elementary salutes you, Mrs. Dawson and thanks you for making a difference in the lives of others! You are forever an Eagle Champion!

Lewis Adkins, eighth grade language arts − Mr. Lewis Adkins is committed to helping his students discover their potential and teaching them self-discipline. Lewis goes above and beyond for his students and is passionate about his content and teaching. He is always willing to help out and assist when needed. He just completed a successful season as our new cross country head coach earning the Stark County Champion title and OHSAA Middle School state runner-up for the girls team!

Sandy Valley

Megan Zampino, third grade − Miss Megan Zampino is always smiling brightly and bubbling with excitement for teaching her third graders! She engages her students with entertaining lessons, and she leads building initiatives to bring joy and fun to all of our elementary Cardinals!

St. Thomas Aquinas

Jen Jones, middle school art − Jen Jones is the St. Thomas Aquinas art teacher! Since joining the STA family, Ms. Jones has decked the STA halls in student artwork, taking students on field trips, and coming up with creative project ideas for all grades. Walking into the STA Art room is a joy, with music often playing and murals being painted on walls. Ms. Jones is actively engaged with her students and their work while teaching them the ins and outs of art and design. This year, middle school has done art outside and even completed a special gingerbread house competition! We love seeing what her classes can come up with!

Jodene Stroia, English/mass media − Jodene Stroia is a high school English and Mass Media teacher at St. Thomas Aquinas. She builds strong relationships with her students and has a special talent for making learning fun and engaging. She shows her dedication to STA by being active in her school community! She is our yearbook advisor, making her deeply knowledgeable about most of our student body, and leads our Mass Media course which teaches students about news broadcasts, public speaking, and presenting in today's world!

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Walsh University Teacher of the Month: Megan Zampino, Sandy Valley