Our teachers are amazing, which is why we share the story of a school’s Teacher of the Year every week... please help us celebrate Knox Elementary School STEM Academy 2019 Teacher of the Year Nicole Waldrep!

Knox Elementary School STEM Academy first-grade teacher Nicole Waldrep is praised by colleagues as an advocate, a saint, a friend -- and their 2019 Teacher of the Year.

A colleague describes the care with which Ms. 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,” she said.  “Most people consider this class too challenging.  Mrs. Waldrep never backs down from this class or any student.”

A 13-year educator, Ms. 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.

In her own words: “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.”
#CCSDfam

PHOTO: Celebrating at “Legacy Makers: CCSD Teachers of the Year Celebration” are, from left to right, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower, Knox Elementary School STEM Academy 2019 Teacher of the Year Nicole Waldrep and recently retired Principal Tammy Sandell.

Special thanks to our "Legacy Makers" Presenting Sponsors: Cherokee County Educational Foundation, Credit Union of Georgia, Northside Hospital Cherokee and Shottenkirk Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Canton!