Teacher of the Year

SAMANTHA CHES

Samatha Ches never intended to teach, but as a college chemistry major she was sent to Pleasantville Elementary School to complete an elective assignment. She enjoyed being with the students so much, the next day she went to her guidance counselor at Wilmington University and switched her major to become an educator; 15 years later she has never looked back saying, “I love being a classroom teacher!” Ches teaches special education at Wilmington Manor where  she’s always challenged to find new and different ways to engage students. “We form relationships in here that are pretty incredible. The kids surprise me every year and I’m doing everything I can to get them ready for the next grade academically, socially and emotionally” she says. As much as Ches works to help her students, she also strives to ensure  parents and guardians that she  has the wellbeing of their children at heart. “I think about them when I’m at home with my own kids. I understand this isn’t a 9 to5 job. I have to be prepared and be determined to meet the kids wherever they are and just continue to help them grow to wherever their potential takes them.”