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Frances C. Smith Early Childhood Center School No. 50
Teacher of the Year
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Degrees and Certifications:
Kelly Vallo
PreKindergarten Spanish
Since I was a young girl, I had always wanted to become a teacher of our youngest learners. It is what guided me to pursue my career in Early Childhood Education. I graduated from Kean University with a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and a minor in Spanish. Growing up and attending school in Elizabeth was what inspired me to become a teacher for Elizabeth Board of Education. It was my turn to give back to the children of the city I grew up in.
I have been teaching preschool for 20 years at the Frances C. Smith School #50. I have taught many students throughout my career, many of which have come back to visit me to express their gratitude for being their Pre-K teacher. Working at school #50 has allowed me to work collaboratively with my peers, facilitators and principals, helping me grow not only as an individual, but as and educator.
I believe that all children can learn and grow academically, socially and emotionally in a warm and welcoming classroom environment. It is my goal daily to provide every child that walks through my doors that experience. I will continue to use this belief to guide me as I teach and inspire my students.
Educational Service Professional of the Year
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Degrees and Certifications:
Aura Chacon
Child Development Associate
My name is Aura Chacon, I am currently 45 years old and I was born in Colombia. I completed my high school education in my home country as well as earned my college degree in Business Administration. However, I was not able to continue my studies due to the change of country.
I came to this country in 1998 filled with dreams and goals in which I was fortunate enough to complete little by little. I started my experience with children back in Colombia where I worked for a Foundation called Davida, my role was to guide and help children with intellectual disorders. I fell in love with the job and the positive impact I had on their lives. Thus, it made me realize that it was something I wanted to continue to do, so I studied and completed my CDA course to get into the educational field.
Now, I am a teacher assistant who has been working for Elizabeth Public Schools since 2007. I am just as in love with the job as when I first started, if not more. I am proud to say that I have achieved all my goals as an educator and will continue to make sure that I give the students the best education possible.