CCSD 2019 Teacher Of The Year: Nicole Waldrep

From the Cherokee County School District: The Cherokee County School District celebrates Knox Elementary School STEM Academy 2019 Teacher of the Year Nicole Waldrep. A first grade teacher, Waldrep has been praised by her colleagues as an advocate, a saint and a friend.

A colleague describes the care with which Waldrep teaches her inclusion classes, which are classes made up of both regular and special education students.

“You would never know which students in her room are special needs students. She always includes everyone, and goes above and beyond to accommodate everyone’s needs,” the colleague said. “Most people consider this class too challenging. Mrs. Waldrep never backs down from this class or any student.”

A 13-year educator, Waldrep began teaching as a second career after working in brokerages. After starting her family, she subbed in her children’s preschool and discovered her true calling. She went back to school to earn her bachelor’s degree in education, began teaching for CCSD and since has earned a master’s degree, too.

“My greatest accomplishment in education is creating a safe and nurturing classroom where children know they are all special and treated equally. Every student deserves the opportunity to thrive in a challenging classroom, make friends, and be accepted," she said.