Erika Phelps
Position: Second Grade Teacher
School: Dr. Nick Osborne Primary Center
School District: Mount Vernon City Schools Dist. 80
City, State: Mount Vernon, IL
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Erika Phelps was nominated by her principal, Shannon Marler.
Mrs. Phelps comes to school every day with a positive attitude and plans each day to demonstrate lessons and activities to help students to excel in her class and reach her high but realistic expectations. She works with a very diverse population of students in her classroom which range from students who are very high academic achievers to students who may not want to come to school because of their academic, social, or emotional struggles.
Mrs. Phelps provides lessons and activities that target specific learning styles, (visual, auditory, tactile) and provides instruction that reaches each learner in her class, regardless of their academic level. She is one of the best academic instructors and classroom managers in her school, and can create a positive atmosphere and foster a love of learning for her students through her gentle, yet tough love.
"She is one of the most dedicated, smart, hard working teachers I have ever had the pleasure to work with," Marler said. "It is with sincere pleasure to nominate Mrs. Erika Phelps to be a LifeChanger nominee."
Mrs. Phelps performs a needs assessment on her students immediately when she receives them into her class. She studies their abilities from the previous year based on previous teacher observations, notes, data, work samples, and anything else she can find about each child. She takes anecdotal notes each day on each student when she works with them individually or in a small or large group when they are in her care, gauging their capabilities. She takes the child, builds their confidence on the things they can do, then pushes them to work hard, excel, and to learn while in her care. She forms relationships with her students' families to see what specific needs or resources her students have or may not have so she has an idea of what to work with or to put into place, purchase,or what resource she may need so that her students' needs are met.
"I have worked with Mrs. Phelps for 23 years and the amount of progress her students make in her class from beginning to end are to be noted, recognized, and commended," Marler said.
Mrs. Phelps works with students on how to be productive learners by role playing, reviewing good character each day in her class, and grasping onto teaching opportunities when presented with them. She is very skilled at watching for and using teachable moments to bring attention to what good character/behavior looks like and what it doesn't look like. She is positive and always seeks positive examples to bring into her lessons/classroom each day.
Mrs. Phelps is known at school and in the community as one of the best educators for promoting student excellence and a love for learning. The tremendous impact she makes on her students is evident when they come back to visit with her after they've left their class. "In their senior year, you will read in the paper that Mrs. Phelps was their favorite teacher throughout their time in school because she took the time to get to know them, demanded and directed their focus on school while in her class, and caused them to love learning through the gentle, yet high expectations she set for them as their teacher," Marler said. "Her students never forget her. Her class is filled with hands on opportunities and activities that make students excited to be in her class. She capitalizes on direct teacher instruction, enhances instruction through technology, and also through exploration, independent learning centers, and small and big group instruction."
Mrs. Phelps is a mentor for new teachers and student-teachers that are new coming into the teaching profession. Even though she demonstrates and verbalizes the demands of every day teaching, she holds her mentee/student teachers accountable in some of the same ways she does with her students. She models and demonstrates good teaching practices daily. She always takes time to talk with the new staff, allows them to come in and take notes of her teaching practices through observation, and also goes into their classrooms to watch their teaching so she can give honest feedback on what they did well, and what they can work on to make things easier for themselves or the students.
Mrs. Phelps is always willing to lend a helping hand around the school and volunteers to be a part of activities around the school and in the community.
"It is evident through her evaluations through the years with other administrators, along with myself, that she gives her whole heart and soul to teaching. Teaching is her passion, and through her actions and demonstrations you can see the level of skill she has and how quickly she can see what her students need and what she needs to put into place to create a love of learning for her students and success," Marler said. Mrs. Phelps' data and benchmark assessment scores are hands down some of the highest in the building every time students are tested. She works with the third grade team of teachers to see what their expectations of going into the next grade level are and what her students need to know to be successful before entering the next grade. The third grade team always knows that when they receive one of her students, they will be well prepared for learning. She not only works with the students who have academic difficulties to push them as far as she can without causing them stress in doing so, but she works extremely well with students who are excelled/gifted. Mrs. Phelps differentiates her instruction to ensure students are receiving enriching and challenging activities to keep their learning moving forward. She makes sure her students stay away from boredom and remain engaged in learning at or above their levels.
Mrs. Phelps' students know that she cares about them. She produces an environment in her classroom of respect and kindness. Her students are cheerleaders for their classmates. When someone does something well, she makes sure to lift their confidence in every way through making their success a "BIG DEAL." Mrs. Phelps promotes the home to school connection by connecting with parents and getting them to be on her team so that she can celebrate student successes with them. Mrs. Phelps also tells parents the truth about their children's abilities. As a parent and teacher, she knows the importance of making sure parents are aware when their student has academic, behavioral or emotional struggles. Parents deserve to know the truth. Therefore, she makes sure she communicates well, but delicately when doing so because she understands when you talk to a parent about their child, you are talking to their heart. She is skilled at getting parents to work with her as a partner to give them ideas to help their child. She understands parents aren't teachers and may not have the resources to get what they need for her students. This is one of the many reasons she stands out as an exceptional professional. She finds a way to make things happen for her parents and students by using her school, community, or her own resources. Her students are very loving and know their expectations. She gives them the skill sets necessary to use each day to be a responsible, productive student so that later they will carry their skills with them long after they've left her classroom.
Her balanced approach to encouraging and challenging her students has helped deliver the results from her students that she desires.
"It is amazing to watch her transform students from day one when she receives them, through the year and how much they grow through her delivery of instruction each day. Her ability to get what she wants and needs from her students, and to watch her work with families to make huge changes in her students lives is amazing to watch as her administrator," Marler said.
One of the many strong assets she posesses daily and is very important to her is high moral character and ethical standards. She doesn't expect her students to do anything she is not willing to do herself. She leads and teaches by example all day long every day. "She gets in her classroom daily and works and works with her students on the many facets of education to produce good, respectable, life long learners. It is evident when the parents and students come back to see her and tell her what a difference she has made in their life and their beliefs about school," Marler said.
Erika Phelps in the News:
District 80 teachers up for national award
I am a teacher that was blessed to be able to complete my student teaching with Mrs. Erika Phelps. Her teaching philosophies and techniques, professionalism, and passion for teaching were apparent from the first day I was in her classroom. When I left her room and began my own journey in education, I was equipped with a strong foundation and set of values. The experience I had with her as a mentor was priceless!
Having been to her classroom for a visit years ago, I can honestly say that I wish she was my teacher when I was that age! She pours her heart and soul into her students each year. She has told me on more than one occasion how hard it is for her at the end of each school year. She is driven and determined to make a difference in each of her students' lives each year. The love and care she has for the kids is obvious to anyone that has spent any amount of time with her. I cannot think of a better recipient of this award than my baby sister!
If anyone knows Erika deserves this award, it's me. My name is Chad Phelps and I have been married to her, all of her teaching career. I hear every night about her day and what she's going to do tomorrow. She gives all of her parents each year her personal cell number to check in at anytime. It doesn't matter where we are at she will answer the call and take care of them. Kids who have graduated high school and college still come by at the end of the year to see her. I tell her all the time this is your true calling and she smiles back at me. We were coming back from vacation several years ago and she made me stop on the interstate. I had to cross a ditch and a fence to pick a piece of cotton so she could show her class where clothes begin. There are hundred of stories like this that I could fill all the pages. I truly believe every year she changes the lives of each one of her students. I am super proud of her and she is such deserving of this fantastic award. My votes for her! Chad
Erika is a dedicated, caring, hard working teacher. Her love for the students is above and beyond. She challenges them to exceed expectations and she is super organized!
Erika is a great teacher. She does an outstanding and is absolutely dedicated to providing her students with a learning environment that allows them to succeed!!!!!!!!! Good Luck!!!!!!!!!
One year I took a friend's grandkids to open house. When I walked in she asked how I knew the children, I explained. Erika's son and my daughter went to school together. She asked me to keep her informed on the children because she knew they didn't have much. She was willing to buy food clothes whatever they need. She was willing to go above and beyond being a teacher.
So excited for Erika! All I've ever heard is that she is such a wonderful teacher...from former students, parents, and co teachers. As an educator myself, I know how difficult it is to be in the classroom. It's tough to juggle what everyone perceives as the responsibilities of the teacher. So happy that Erika is being recognized as one who does well in all these areas. Congratulations, Erika!
I've only had the chance to interact with Mrs Pgelps thru her own children but suffice to say that she is the "real deal" with all of her "kids". Well deserved nomination
I have had the privilege of knowing Mrs Phelps since the 80's. She is a fun, kind and a giving person. Last year Mrs Phelps had my neice as a student. I was so impressed with the feedback that I received from my niece regarding her classroom experiences. Unbelievable and inspiring! Mrs Phelps definitely deserves this award!
Erika is a kind and caring person who has a heart for teaching. She genuinely cares about the kids. We need more teachers like her!
Just last week I met a young student who attends the District 80 school. I started naming people I know who work there. When I mentioned Mrs. Phelps, this little girl started jumping up and down and said she is the "best teacher I've had in my whole life!" I have known Erika for many, many years and it is good to hear a young student with such enthusiasm for a teacher.
I have know Mrs. Phelps for 20 some years. She is an outstanding teacher in the classroom and away from the classroom. She has the best interest of all children. She truly cares about her students and anyone that touches her life. She is always there to help with a smile on her face. My vote goes to Mrs. Phelps.
I have known Erika for a very long time, she is one of the most caring people I know. She would do whatever she could to help a child excel. District 80 is very fortunate to have her as a teacher. She deserves this award hands down.
Erika Phelps is the teacher that you want teaching your kids! She is passionate about student learning and works throughout the year to make sure she is the best teacher she can be. I believe one of the things that sets her apart is the fact that she recognizes individual needs and addresses them. Differentiation is a key component that makes her classroom special. If a child needs extra help, she plans for that. If a child needs challenged, she works to challenge the student. But, I really love that the children in Mrs. Phelps' classroom are taught to be kind, organized, use their manners (every. single. day.) - in addition to the regular curriculum. A child that gets to be a part of Mrs. Phelps' classroom is a very lucky child!
I met Mrs. Phelps when she was my daughter's second grade teacher. She was so welcoming to all of her students. I felt it was going to be a great year--and it was! As a teacher, she was always organized, energetic, creative, and fair to all. She instilled a love for learning and positive attitude in her students. To this day, eleven years later, she is always friendly and genuinely interested in what her former students are doing. Mt. Vernon is so fortunate to have Mrs. Phelps in its school system She certainly deserves this award!
Wow, let me just say that Mrs. Phelps is amazing! She was my second grade teacher in 2006, and I still remember the impact she had on me as a student and as an individual. Her kindness, enthusiasm, and care were apparent every day of school. She was always so excited to see all of her little second graders, and she would greet us with a huge smile that would brighten everyone’s day. I felt extremely welcomed and loved in her class. She taught me skills and lessons that stayed with me throughout my academic career. Mrs. Phelps made class so fun and enjoyable, and I looked forward to going to school every single day. Now, it is always exciting to run into her around town. Her positive personality and happy spirit is contagious. She is just the sweetest person, and I was so lucky to have her as my teacher!!
I know Mrs. Phelps in several respects. First, she is a friend of my family who always has a big smile and a warm greeting. Second, she was my daughter's second grade teacher who treated her like one of her own. Third, I was a member of the school board for 8 years for the District in which she works. I know here well---personally, socially, and professionally. When encountering Mrs. Phelps, she always puts one at ease and invites conversation. Her demeanor is the same for students, parents, colleagues, administrators, staff, board members, and the public in general. She has a manner of engaging and discussing that addresses the issue at hand with results that are satisfying and beneficial for all parties. She is a master teacher who relates to all her students. They adore her and enthusiastically respond to her teachings. They learn but have fun in the process. She is always "on" and brings the very best in education to the classroom. Mt. Vernon City Schools is blessed to have her as a teacher. She epitomizes all the positive attributes and qualities that a school district would want in a teacher and that every parent or guardian would want for their child. She is a life changer for every child she touches.
Unlike most all others who have posted, I am not a former student of Erikas nor the parent of one of her students. I am not a co-worker nor a relative. Actually, she is a client of mine. Over the years I've been allowed the opportunity to develope a unique & cherished relationship with her & her family. As a personal trainer, over time, you often learn more about a person than anyone else in their life other than, maybe, immediate family members but, only if thers trust, Erika is a trusted friend to many. You really do get know a client; when & what they eat, how they sleep, how they stress, their highs & lows, their personal relationships, their work, their families etc. As well as the long list of character
ingredients such as punctual, professional, dedicated, persistent, committed, passionate, organized, purposeful, inspired & let's not forget Erikas trademark, Structured! Of all these qualities that I see Erika demonstrate daily, the one that changed my life was "thoughtfulness"! I can't begin to number the times I've been thought of by her & her family. From a personally delivered home cooked diner on a winter day to the removal & clean up of a fallen tree etc. So, all that said, when you combine that level of thoughtfulness plus her high character & values, you wind up being regularly considered in the best possible way. The same way as her students I'm sure! Changed my life! Thanks Erika
Everyone has a teacher that they remember later in life, that made a difference. That teacher is Erika Phelps. She should be given this honor, it is well deserved.
I have known Erika for a few years. She is a great person and one of the most positive individuals I have had the pleasure of getting to know. Any child who is so fortunate to be placed in Erika's class, will no doubt learn more than the daily lessons of reading, writing, and arithmetic. She is so very deserving of this award!
Erika's is a dedicated, caring, hard working teacher. Her love for the students is above and beyond. Perfect candidate for the Life Changer Award!
There are many words I can say about my mom . She's the nicest most kind person you'll ever meet ! When I come home from school everyday she still has a smile on her face . I could not do my homework without her or study for test! You deserve this award more than anyone else thank u for being my mother . Love you
Reading all the comments listed only confirms what I’ve always known. I have had the pleasure of knowing Mrs. Phelps for 20+ years. Not only are all of the comments mentioned true about her teaching style & practices in the classroom but also true with her every day life. She is also an outstanding mother and wife. She gives to those in need and expects nothing in return. I’m very pleased to learn that such a deserving candidate is being considered for this award!
I have the privilege of being Erika’s friend. I know how dedicated and hard working she is to all of her classes. She constantly talks about her classes and how special each one of her students are to her! She is so deserving of this special honor! Any student that has Erika as a teacher will come out changed for the better!
Mrs. Phelps is a great role model and mentor for teacher candidates from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Mrs. Phelps opened her classroom and allowed SIUC students to learn from a seasoned teacher. She was an awesome cooperating teacher. She deserves to be recognized! Thanks for being a great teacher and mentor to all students.
Erika is one of the best teachers in District 80! Very dedicated to her students. Hands down my vote for Life Changer of the Year!!
Erika Phelps is the kind of teacher any parent would want their child to have. She is very dedicated and truly does care for her kids. She has an amazing gift to know how to bring out the best in her students and always has an open communication with parents. She is one of those teachers that all of us have had that bring back good memories when we are older.
Erika,
We are proud to be a part of the same team! We are behind you all the way! Congratulations!
Your Second Grade Team
Mrs. Phelps is a life changer! She is a very dedicated teacher with a heart of gold. My son loves being in her classroom. She has helped him in so many ways in just the short time he has been with her this year. She goes out of her way to stay in communication with parents. Mrs. Phelps is great at understanding and encouraging her students needs. I am so glad that when my son is at school he is in her hands.
Mrs. Phelps is a great teacher and role model for our son. She spends extra time with him and helps him in many ways. Mrs. Phelps is the best.
I have been so happy to have Mrs. Phelps as my sons 2nd grade teacher this year! She truly cares deeply about her students and creates a love for learning that my son did not have before. Even when he may have a rough day, her comments are always positive and encouraging. He loves being in her class and I'm so thankful for the work that she does with him, and each one of her students. She definitely deserves this award for the many lives she has truly changed, and will change in the future.
Thank you, Mrs. Phelps!!!!!
Erika is a wonderful teacher. She always has a smile on her face, and her kids love her. She seems to be so motherly to them. Awesome candidate for this award.
Mrs. Phelps is a wonderful teacher. Every class that she has is well organized and pays attention. She run a very structured classroom. I believe the reason is because she truly cares for her students and wants them to exceed. She makes learning fun for her students. Mrs. Phelps deserves to win this award.
I have had the pleasure of working with Mrs. Phelps, as well as have her as my daughter's second grade teacher. Mrs. Phelps is an amazing teacher! She puts her heart and soul into working with her kids each day. She sets high expectations for her students and pushes them to meet and exceed those expectations. Mrs. Phelps was my daughters first experience for Mount Vernon City Schools. Mrs. Phelps made my daughters transition to a new school district easy. She helped my daughter to grow and build much needed confidence. My daughter still admires Mrs. Phelps and gets so very excited to see her. Mrs. Phelps, without a doubt, truly deserves this award!
Words could never express how I feel about Mrs. Phelps!
My daughter is in her class this year and has had such a wonderful year! The happiness that bursts out of my daughter every evening when she talks about school that day is unbelievable and warms a my heart! Mrs. Phelps has compassion and goes above and beyond to help her students be the best they can be!! She is never off duty and makes herself available to her students and family 24/7.
You know she has an impact on your child when your child shows confidence in what she is working on and quotes Mrs. Phelps on a daily basis. Also, the words " I CANNOT WAIT TO TELL MRS. PHELPS" comes from her mouth often! Mrs. Phelps is more than deserving of this award!!!
Mrs. Phelps is that teacher that instills a love of learning in a child. She uses a variety of teaching methods and adapts to a child's abilities and needs. Mrs. Phelps also builds relationships with the parents, is aware of lifestyles and empathizes with issues for the family. She encourages and pushes her students to excel and is a dedicated servant leader. She follows her students and celebrates their success.
I credit Mrs. Phelps with providing my son with a solid scholastic background, a drive for excellence and a love for school. He recently graduated summa cum laude with a major in biology and a minor in history while being a student athlete. He is now a graduate student in preparation for medical school. She is still one of his encouragers. Mrs. Phelps is a perfect example of a lifechanger.
I have worked with Erica for 11 years, and as a music teacher have grown to look forward to her students coming to music class. They are always well behaved and have a great work ethic. I am not at all surprised that she was nominated for this award and believe she is well deserving!
We've had two children who were blessed to have Mrs. Phelps as their teacher.
Her dedication and devotion are matched only by her infectious enthusiasm.
Every morning our kids would greet the school day with smile knowing they got to see Mrs. Phelps and they would come home and talk about the wonderful things they got to do that day.
We have one more who will go to the Primary Center. I can only hope that she wI'll be lucky enough to have Mrs. Phelps.
Her influence isn't limited to the students whose lives she touches. She inspires me to be a more motivational and inspirational teacher.
Erika Phelps is truly a gem in the school community.
Not only is my daughter is in Mrs. Phelps' class this year, but I have the privilege to teach at the same school as her. I am truly thankful that she is the kind of teacher who sets high expectations, but supports the students as they reach academic goals. Mrs. Phelps teaches more than just academic standards. She teaches the students how to talk to each other, cheer for each other and talk about problems. They have daily character eduacation lessons. My daughter loves coming to school each day! Mrs. Phelps is nothing short of amazing and I am a better person because I know her.
Mrs. Phelps is one of the most incredible teachers I've met. She teaches things that are not necessarily in the books but some children will never learn certain life skills. She makes sure that each and every child's needs are met in every way. My daughter still uses things she's learned from Mrs. Phelps on a daily basis and makes sure to give the credit to Mrs. Phelps. She still contacts me to check on my daughter and asks her to stop by the classroom so she is still able to have a relationship with my daughter. I appreciate Mrs. Phelps very much! If anyone deserves a life changing teacher award it is her. Because I know for a fact she has changed many lives in her years of teaching. We will never forget Mrs. Phelps!
I had Mrs. Phelps as a teacher in 2nd grade 23 years ago, 1994-95. Of all the teachers I've had over the years, in grade school, middle school, high school and college, she has remained one of the very best! Her kindness and encouragement are what I remember best. I can't think of anyone more deserving of this award! Thank you for all you've done over the years, Mrs. Phelps!
When my friends and I think back to our educational path, Mrs. Phelps always comes to mind. Some of us had the same teachers while others did not. One thing that you can be sure of is that Mrs. Phelps will be brought up. Whether it is students saying "I loved her! I would not have wanted another teacher" or others saying "I wish I would have had the opportunity to experience her class". She was my 2nd grade teacher and I am now 22 going on 23 (in graduate school) and she still takes an interest in my life, what I am doing, how I am, and where I am heading goal wise. She is never shy to offer advice or help in anyway she can. I can look back and honestly say that my experience in her class was very important to my education. I remember how she would challenge us not only in the classroom but as people as well. She was always positive and you never questioned for a second if she wanted to be there or if she really loved her job. Her goal was to help us to reach our potential as much as she could. In her class you never doubted if she believed in your or not because she was as much of a supportive figure as she could be without being a parent. One specific instance I remember from class is she took the time to write 25 (approximately I don't remember how many students exactly) things that each student in the class had a skill for or that they were good at. Mine was "Collin has really neat handwriting". The point is that she does what an educator should and focuses on the positives the child brings to the class and helps with areas that they struggle. No child will ever feel left out in her class and she will continue to be a source of advice and support throughout their development. Mrs. Marler's description of Mrs. Phelps is spot on. My vote goes to Mrs. Phelps and she undoubtedly deserves this honor.
Mrs. Phelps was my second grade teacher. I am a junior in high school now, and to this day, she is my favorite teacher that I've had. She is SUCH an outstanding teacher. Mrs. Phelps made sure each student was learning to the best of their ability in every lesson, discussion, and project that we did in her class. Each of us students felt loved and cared for in her class. One thing that stands out when I think of being in Mrs. Phelps' second grade class is her dedication to her students. There was never a student in my class that felt unappreciated or out of place in her class. Mrs. Phelps was an outstanding teacher when it came to teaching the lessons, but even more important than that, she was amazing when it came to building relationships with her kids and catering to each of their needs. She was truly a life changing teacher for me. There is no person in the world that deserves this honor more than Mrs. Erika Phelps!
Mrs. Phelps is truly one of a kind, as a mother I was truly blessed to have Mrs. Phelps apart of our lives. When I say our lives meaning she was there for me also. It was a blessing to have Mrs.Phelps apart of my daughter learning experience at Dr. Nick Osborne Primary Center. My daughter is now in third grade and Mrs. Phelps still keep in touch with me and that means a lot. You can tell she truly value her children and parents and for that I give her 5 star's!
I have had the pleasure to work along with Mrs. Phelps as one of her Americorps members. She truly has each and everyone of her student’s best interest at heart. She takes time to greet each student everyday and gets to know each and everyone of her student as a child themselves. She wants to see each one be successful. She doesn’t think of her kiddos as just a number on a state test. She also likes to have parent involvement with each other students, which nowadays is huge.Especially considering how electronics plays a huge role in most parents day to day life. Every child needs a Mrs. Phelps in their life!! I feel extremely grateful to have worked along side her for a few years. I’m currently an educator and often times I think to myself...what would Mrs. Phelps do in this situation? Or how would Mrs. Phelps respond to this. Thanks Mrs. Phelps for all you have inspired in me and your students :)
Mrs. Phelps taught both of my children and has made huge differences in their lives. She is one of a kind. She is dedicated, structured and has the ability to teach at many different levels. She pushed my children and made sure they were always challenged. She was not only their teacher but has become a family favorite in our home. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award!!!
Mrs. Phelps taught both of my children and has made huge differences in their lives. She is one of a kind. She is dedicated, structured and has the ability to teach at many different levels. She pushed my children and made sure they were always challenged. She was not only their teacher but has become a family favorite in our home. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award!!!
Best teacher around! Always willing to help anyone no matter what.
My daughter is currently in Mrs. Phelps' class and loves it. My daughter struggles with attention & focus, and Mrs Phelps is wonderful with her and very willing to have ongoing conversations to work on any issues. On weekends, my daughter often says, "I miss Mrs. Phelps. I can't wait until Monday to see her."
Hello,
My name is Hunter Marler and Mrs. Phelps was my Second Grade Teacher. Not only was she my Second Grade Teacher, she was one of my favorites. Mrs. Phelps not only is a fantastic teacher, she is an all around wonderful person. When I was younger, I remember her and my mother (Mrs. Shannon Marler), would be up late working on things that needed to be done for a curriculum or for next weeks events. She shows up with a smile everyday. She knows her students and tailors her teaching styles to each students needs. She knows how to reach each student and drive them to their potential that she knows they have. She touches each and every life, and students never forget her name or experiences in her classroom. I along with all of her current, future and previous students, current, future, and previous coworkers appreciate and are thankful for all of her dedication to her career.
Not only was Mrs. Phelps my second grade teacher many years ago, she has grown into a great friend. It was an honor to be in Mrs. Phelps class. She is the type of teacher a student will never forget. She is one the most loving and caring, yet challenging teachers I’ve had the pleasure of having. When I come home from college, I typically go visit my mom at school (Mrs Marler, Principal at Dr. Nick Osborne Primary Center). I always take the time out of my visit to go check in on Mrs. Phelps and her class. Mrs. Phelps is the only teacher I’ve kept up with over the years. That should show the impact she leaves on her students. Mrs. Phelps past, present, and future students are lucky to have her!
What can I said that haven’t been said well she was my daughter 2grade teacher she did a awesome job with her she worked one on one with her other school when she had priorities herself push her to be confident in herself and more Mrs.phelps is a wonderful person&teacher thanks again
Erika Phelps puts her heart and soul into every single day. She’s the teacher you want your child to have. The kind of teacher that treats everyone the same. The kind of teacher that does not give up on anyone in her room. She fights for each student in and out of her classroom. Her passion for kids means that she keeps every year fresh and exciting. She isn’t the type to do the samething every year because it makes planning easier. She adjusts to the needs of each class. Erika was my inspiration when I went back to school to be a teacher. I learned so many things from her that I still use all of these years later. I couldn’t think of a more deserving teacher for this award.
Excellence is the word that best describes Erika Phelps! She is a phenomenal teacher and the best evidence of that is her students. Her students excel in every area and that is a great testament to the kind of teacher she is.
Mrs. Phelps leaves an impression! She sets the bar high and provides all necessary assistance to get those babies to excel even beyond the bar!
Our two boys had Mrs. Phelps. Both boys came to her with very different educational strengths, needs, and likes. She took them both for who they were and made them excel beyond our dreams!
When asked today, our oldest will still say, "Mrs.Phelps was an amazing teacher!" Our other son walked away knowing she believed he was one amazingly smart kiddo! That confidence helped him soar in the years that followed!
Currently our youngest, our daughter, is a student with Mrs. Phelps . She believes Mrs. Phelps walks on water! She is in awe of all she says and soaks it in like a sponge! What our daughter has learned in 45 days thrills us when we think about the progress we will see by the end of the year!
Mrs. Phelps is a believer in her babies. I'm thankful to call her my children's teacher, and blessed to be her peer. Teaching in a building full of excellence promotes an atmosphere for incredible learning!!
I had the privilege of teaching with Erika for many years! I always knew the students I received from her would be exemplary in being prepared for third grade. She puts her whole heart and soul into each and every student! My daughter is getting ready to student teach and I would hope she is fortunate to get that experience with someone like Erika!!
Mrs.Phelps was my daughter's 2nd grade teacher and was amazing. She always had fun lessons planned that related to real life and the kids were always excited to see what was next. At our first parent teacher conference I was told by the end of the year my daughter would be writing five paragraph essays, sure enough she is a very fluent writer now!
Erika is one of the most dedicated teachers I know. My son Jackson was fortunate enough to have her as a teacher and I cannot begin to explain how he excelled under her care. She has a genuine love for her students and their well-being in ALL areas. She is most deserving of any recognition or award that exemplifies excellence in education!
I have had the pleasure of working with Mrs. Phelps, as well as being a parent of a student in her room. She gets to know each student and what they need to improve on. She strives to reach goals for every need of every student in her classroom!
Mrs. Phelps was my son's teacher way back at Lincoln school. He had a wonderful year in her classroom. She encouraged him.the class made maps to show the way to school and Mrs. Phelps and her son came to visit us using his map. He is now a marine and I like to think Mrs. Phelps had a hand in how he turned out.
She is one amazing teacher....sooo dedicated. She helped my little guy achieve so much and she went the extra mile daily to insure that his second grade year was successful. I will be forever grateful for her devotion and committment to him. She definitely deserves the highest award.
My boys had Mrs Phelps as their second grade teacher. They are now going into 4th and 6th grade and she STILL goes out of her way to wish them good luck before each school year! Mrs Phelps was a wonderful combination - for both of my boys - of fun, structure, learning (or course), and love and compassion. She is very dear to our family's hearts and we know how fortunate we were to have her be a part of our children's education!
My name is Chelsie McKinney and this is my second year teaching in the Mt. Vernon School District. Mrs. Phelps is my mentor teacher and she has been absolutely wonderful! She is always willing to help me in any way she can. Her advice and guidance has helped me tremendously! She goes above and beyond for her school and her students every single day. She has been so great! My vote for Life Changer of the Year is, without a doubt, Erika Phelps.
My name is Brooklyn Hirsch, My vote is for Mrs Phelps!!
I was one of Mrs Phelps students last year. She is kind and has one of the biggest hearts ?? she walked in the door with a smile on her face EVERYDAY ??. She will push you to be your best always but will stick by your side when things get tough NO MATTER WHAT! She is hands down one of the BEST Second grade teachers! I will miss her so much.
Love
Brooklyn Hirsch
My vote is for Erika Phelps!
My vote is for Erika Phillips!
Xavier Forsting is my step son and has adhd and was recently diagnosed with autism. He can be a handful to deal with at times and Mrs. Phelps was amazing to him and my wife Christin Sullivan! Always keeping in touch with her via text or call and even going to visit him in the hospital when he had an panic episode and could not be calmed down. Always going to extra mile to make sure Xavier had the help he needed and keeping in touch and keeping us informed on not only on his bad days but also praising him on his good days. My wife is always saying how she wishes Mrs. Phelps could just be Xavier's teacher every year!
Mrs. Phelps is HANDS DOWN the best teacher had ever had, and I have no doubt she'll be looked back on fondly as the best one she's ever had. To say she's a life changer is an understatement; she's an absolute angel. My child has ADHD as well as autism and she went above and beyond for him, as well as myself, while he was in her class. After school was over and through the summer, she's checked on him repeatedly and always kept up with his progress. She's nothing short of amazing, and I can't wait for my Daughter to end up in her class as well.