Position: Teacher
School: 71st Classical Middle School
School District: Cumberland County Schools
City, State: Fayetteville, NC
Mamta Kasoju was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Kasoju creates a positive classroom environment by building respectful relationships with the students and setting clear expectations from the first day. She establishes consistent routines, encourages collaboration, and ensures every student feels valued and included. Ms. Kasoju uses positive reinforcement to recognize effort and progress, promote a growth mindset, and create opportunities for students to learn from their mistakes.
As a mathematics teacher, she also uses engaging activities, real-world examples, and differentiated instruction so that all students can participate and experience success. When students feel safe, respected, and supported, they are more confident and motivated to learn. Ms. Kasoju's most pressing classroom need is access to engaging, hands-on instructional materials that help students build confidence and develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Many students enter the school year with gaps in foundational skills, making it essential to provide differentiated instruction that addresses a range of learning needs.