Teacher of the Year
Kayla DeBord-Golder
3rd Grade Teacher | Wilmington Manor Elementary School
Kayla DeBord-Golder is a dedicated third grade teacher at Wilmington Manor Elementary School with five years of experience in education, all within Colonial School District. Her passion for teaching began at a young age—by 12, she knew she wanted to become an educator, and by 14, she was already working with children and building the foundation for her future career.
Kayla earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and her Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Delaware through an intensive 4+1 program. This experience prepared her to meet the diverse needs of all learners and fueled her commitment to creating inclusive, engaging, and meaningful learning environments.
Since joining Wilmington Manor, Kayla has built a classroom centered on belonging, high expectations, and student empowerment. She believes every child deserves to feel heard, valued, and supported, and she uses strong differentiation practices to ensure all students can access and succeed in the general education curriculum. Her classroom fosters confidence and independence, encouraging students to advocate for themselves, take risks, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Kayla is known for building strong relationships with her students and families, often supporting her students beyond the classroom by attending their extracurricular events and maintaining open lines of communication. She has also taken on leadership roles within her school community, including helping to launch the Girls on the Run program and mentoring colleagues in special education practices.
Her impact is reflected not only in student growth—such as transforming mindsets and academic confidence—but also in the strong classroom culture she creates. Through daily practices like reinforcing “Rights as Learners,” Kayla empowers students to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and take ownership of their education.
Kayla has been recognized for her excellence in teaching as a Teacher of the Year winner at Wilmington Manor and a multiple recipient of Roadrunner Awards. She is also highly regarded for her instructional practices, earning strong evaluation ratings and praise for her engaging and supportive classroom environment.
She embodies the “Power of WE” by creating a bold, inclusive, and authentic learning community where every student feels they belong. Her genuine care, high expectations, and commitment to student success allow her students to grow not only academically, but socially and emotionally.
Originally from South Carolina, Kayla brings warmth and energy into everything she does. She enjoys spending time outdoors, being near the water, and making memories with her large, close-knit family.
Kayla’s mission as an educator is simple yet powerful: to be a champion for every child—someone who believes in them, supports them, and helps them become the best version of themselves.
