Jean Callison Elementary proudly honors Ellen Tilghman as its Teacher of the Year.
Ellen represents more than just excellence recognition; she embodies a commitment to her profession, a passion for inspiring young minds, and a relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth. Achieving this honor culminates in countless hours of dedication, meaningful relationships with students, and a willingness to adapt and innovate within an ever-evolving educational landscape.
At the core of being an exceptional educator lies an unwavering belief in the potential of every student. Each day, she embarks on a journey to spark curiosity, instill confidence, and nurture the unique talents of their learners. To earn the title of Teacher of the Year, one must go beyond the basics of instruction; it requires building meaningful connections that create a supportive and inclusive environment. Ellen encompasses all of these qualities.
Her connections form the foundation of a classroom where students feel seen, heard, and valued. She is an educator, mentor, role model, and advocate who guides students through challenges and celebrates their successes.
Ellen understands that their influence extends far beyond the four walls of their classroom. She is a leader within her school and community, inspiring colleagues to strive for excellence and advocating for policies that benefit all learners. By modeling collaboration, empathy, and a growth mindset, Ellen fosters a culture of respect and innovation that resonates throughout the educational system.
Lastly, I want to leave you some words from her peers who stated, "Ellen is a talented, creative, hard-working, and fun teacher!! She takes time to mentor new teachers patiently and enthusiastically. She is a strong member and communicator of our leadership team. She shows commitment to learning and growing as an educator in several ways and attends extra-professional learning opportunities. The kids love her, and the staff adores her.”
– Kacey Ramos, Principal, Jean Callison Elementary School