Staff Shoutout – Amanda Winters, Washington ES

This week, we’re shining a spotlight on Amanda Winters, kindergarten and first-grade Emotional Support Teacher, at Washington Elementary School, who has been with our district since September 2016.

Amanda’s favorite part of her job is witnessing her students take ownership of their behaviors. She believes in empowering students by giving them the tools and confidence to make positive choices. When students realize that they have the power to regulate their own actions, it not only boosts their self-esteem but also helps them develop a sense of responsibility for their actions. This self-regulation is crucial for success both in the classroom and in life, and Amanda is proud to see her students grow in self-awareness. Watching them progress and develop the confidence to shape their outcomes is one of the most rewarding aspects of her role.

What Amanda loves most about working at SDoL is the opportunity to learn from a diverse array of perspectives and cultures. She thrives in an environment where she is constantly challenged to adapt her approaches to ensure that all students feel seen, valued, and supported. By fostering an inclusive classroom, Amanda helps create a space where students can be their authentic selves, regardless of their background or any labels they may carry.

Amanda holds both her undergraduate and master’s degrees from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania where she completed studies in Elementary Education, Special Education, and Deaf Education. Her strong academic foundation, combined with her experience in the classroom, equips her with the skills necessary to meet the unique needs of each student she works with.

A colleague who nominated Amanda for this shoutout said: “Miss Winters exemplifies passion for teaching, empathy, and dedication in supporting her students. It is incredible and inspiring to watch her in action. Her ability to engage a diverse multigrade class with varying needs is both impressive and inspiring. She meticulously understands each student’s preferences, interests, academic strengths, and challenges, which enables her to effectively support their sensory, behavioral, and learning differences. Her skill in differentiating instruction is remarkable; she seamlessly balances addressing individual needs while managing classroom activities and tracking student progress. Her combination of rigor, warmth, and unyielding stamina sets a high standard. SDoL is fortunate to have such a committed and dynamic educator.”

This school year, Amanda has made remarkable strides in creating a structured classroom environment that fosters student success. Not only has she established a safe and productive learning space, but she has also trained all new staff members on effective classroom management strategies, ensuring that a consistent and supportive approach is implemented across the team.

Outside of work, Amanda describes herself as an “extroverted introvert.” While she loves connecting with people and enjoys the energy that comes from those interactions, she also recharges best by spending quiet time with her dogs.

We are lucky to have someone as compassionate, dedicated, and skilled as Amanda Winters on our team. She is an example of the impact a teacher can have on their students’ lives. Thank you, Amanda, for all the hard work, care, and heart you put into every day at Washington Elementary. You are making a difference, and we are so grateful for you!

 

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