Chona Samson
Position: Third Grade Teacher
School: Sandy Searles Miller Academy for Int'l Studies
School District: Clark County School District
City, State: Las Vegas, NV
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Chona Samson was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Samson, who has won the Rookie Teacher of the Year award, believes that creating a positive classroom environment is a top priority. From the very first day, she makes an effort to greet her students warmly and learn their names as quickly as possible. Ms. Samson has found that showing genuine interest in students' lives—asking about their weekend, hobbies, or goals—goes a long way in building trust and connection. To create structure, she establishes clear rules and routines early on. Ms. Samson involves the students in developing these expectations, which helps them take ownership and feel respected. Consistency and fairness have helped create a sense of safety in her classroom. Respect and inclusivity are at the heart of everything she does.
Ms. Samson makes it a point to celebrate the diversity in her classroom and ensure every student feels seen and valued. If issues like teasing or exclusion arise, she addresses them promptly and constructively. Ms. Samson also encourages her students' voices and choices whenever possible. Whether it's allowing them to choose topics for projects or incorporating their feedback into class decisions, she's noticed it boosts both engagement and motivation. Ms. Samson uses a mix of collaborative activities, discussions, and hands-on learning to keep students actively involved. She differentiates her instruction to meet a range of learning needs, and always makes sure to celebrate effort—not just results. Over time, this has helped build a strong growth mindset in many of her students.
Maintaining a positive, calm tone, even during challenges, has been crucial for Ms. Samson. She's learned that the environment she creates directly influences how her students feel and perform, and she strives every day to make it one where they feel supported, encouraged, and excited to learn.
One of her most pressing classroom needs is access to more high-interest, leveled books for her classroom library. Many of her third-grade students are reading at varying levels—from beginning readers to more fluent ones—and it's critical to provide books that match their skills and interests. Right now, her limited selection makes it hard to keep all students engaged during independent reading time. Having a wider variety of books would help build their confidence, improve comprehension, and foster a love for reading. When students find books they can connect with and understand, they're more motivated to read—and that directly supports their growth in all subject areas.
First and foremost, I was very blessed and thankful for being her friend, colleague. We worked in the same school in Pecos, Texas where she shares her ideas about collaborating on how students achieve. We live in the same apartment wherein we are family as well. She was a good friend and gives all to what a friend needed most.
With regards to teaching career, she was that excellent,and has impacted on learning. Her passion for teaching has truly inspired me. I've learned so much from you Ms. Chona and I appreciate the way you make complex topics understandable. She has shown support for the environment, thank you for creating such a welcoming and supportive classroom. Your encouragement has made a huge difference as a teacher and as your colleague. You have shared innovative teaching methods, I really admire your creative approach to lessons. The activities and projects you design make learning engaging and fun. You have a unique ability to connect with your students. I appreciate how you take the time to understand our individual needs and interests. You gave so much encouragement and motivation when times confusion occurs. You are there to uplift and and always encourages to strive for excellence. Your enthusiasm for the subject is contagious. It makes the student excited to learn and explore new ideas every day. I appreciate the constructive feedback you provide. It helps them grow and improve, the insights are valued.
Beyond academics, you've taught them valuable lessons that will carry an optimistic outcome into their life. Your dedication to your students and your hard work do not go unnoticed. Thank you for going extra mile to ensure their success. You have fostered a sense of community in the classroom that makes learning a collaborative and enjoyable experience.
I am grateful to be your friend, colleague and a family to your family as well. I am so thankful for knowing you Ms. Chona, you have taught me to be strong and to continue my goal as an educator. You are my mentor and I am so proud of your accomplishment now. Keep it up and see you soon, next year.
Thanks a lot, Ma'am Chona...
Ma’am Chona is a true inspiration to everyone around her. Her genuine kindness, unwavering dedication, and willingness to help those in need make her a remarkable role model. Whether it’s offering support, guidance, or simply lending a listening ear, she consistently goes above and beyond to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
I am the school owner of glorioushope academy and for me she was the best teacher i ever had
Ms. Samson approaches teaching with a quiet strength—leading with empathy, staying grounded in patience, and always showing up with purpose. She fosters a classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and believe in their potential. Through her thoughtful presence, she not only supports academic progress but also nurtures the self-belief and curiosity that students carry with them long after they leave her room.
Ms. Samson is a wonderful teacher and mentor. Her passion and dedication to education and children are evident in everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond to create an engaging, supportive, and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered. Her enthusiasm for teaching is contagious, inspiring her students to take an active interest in their studies and strive for excellence.
I was happy when my child was assigned to Ms. Samson because, as his 3rd grade teacher, I knew that the students were in safe, strong hands. I knew that she would encourage him to reach his fullest academic potential while boosting his self-esteem. First, Ms. Samson is very dedicated and hardworking. She is extremely organized and focused on continuously learning and developing best practices to manage routine activities both efficiently and effectively. The way you teach is commendable. From the first class to the last, the enthusiasm in your class never faded. Your words of encouragement helped my son a lot last year. You never gave up on him, even when he wanted to give up. In addition to being an amazing teacher, you're a good person! Thank you for being someone I could trust. You are the best!
I’ve known Ms. Samson for four years and have seen firsthand how she genuinely makes a difference in students’ lives. She’s kind, caring, and always willing to support both students and colleagues. Her dedication to creating a positive, nurturing environment and helping students succeed truly makes her a life changer. She definitely deserves this recognition.
Chona Samson brings kindness, patience, and dedication into every interaction,making each student feel valued, understood, and capable of success. Her ability to connect with learners and inspire them to grow goes beyond academics; she helps shape their confidence, resilience, and love for learning.
Ms. Samson’s dedication to building a welcoming, respectful, and student-centered classroom is truly inspiring. Her intentional efforts to connect with students, promote inclusivity, and foster a growth mindset show the heart of an exceptional educator. It’s clear why she was named Rookie Teacher of the Year..her commitment to creating a space where every child feels seen, supported, and excited to learn is nothing short of remarkable.
Amazing teacher! Very dedicated to her profession!
Ms. Chona Samson is one of a kind. Beyond beautiful heart she is highly commendable and unbelievably talendted teacher. Her dedication, passion and ability to inspire her students make her stand out to the best of her abilities. She is blessed by anyone who knows her.
