By Bryan Boggiano
Broward County Public Schools named Seema Naik, a fourth-grade teacher at Eagle Ridge Elementary School, Teacher of the Year at their Caliber Awards Friday.
The Caliber Awards recognize educators for their innovative leadership and contributions to students, schools, and communities.
Naik was one of two Coral Springs teachers nominated for the award.
“Anyone can take money from your hands, but not your education,” a slogan from Naik’s parents, guides her philosophy of education.
Naik believes that all children have the right to a quality education that gives them sharp critical thinking skills, empowers collaboration, and gives them the self-confidence to reach their goals, according to a school district press release.
“The next generation requires teachers to foster a desire for lifelong learning because of the current technology-dominated era,” she said.
Before teaching, Naik earned her Bachelor of Engineering from The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda and a Master of Applied Science in civil engineering and environmental engineering from the University of Toronto, according to her LinkedIn page.
Naik started her career in education ten years ago, first as a volunteer to get more involved in her daughters’ education. She then applied to be a cafeteria aide and teacher’s assistant before becoming a teacher, according to the press release.
A part of a family of musicians from India, Naik regularly uses music as a teaching aide. She creates songs and chants with lyrics that incorporate lessons to her students, according to a press release.
Her colleagues applaud her approach to education, too, recognizing that she regularly gives students opportunities to excel and reach their full potential.
“In my experience as a school leader, there are only a few teachers I would consider to be a pioneer. It is clear-cut in my mind that Mrs. Naik is a STEM pioneer in the education world,” said Eagle Ridge Elementary Principal Lindsey Sierra. “She has led Eagle Ridge in creating new STEM opportunities for our students.”
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