Nominated by: Nora

Mrs. Strike was Nora's very first teacher when she entered Pre-K. Having had my child home with me for the first four years of her life, it was difficult adjusting to her not being around all day every day. The moment I met Sarah, all worry and anxiety went away. It was easy to leave Nora knowing Mrs. Strike was there, as her gentle voice and reassuring mannerisms, only created ease in the tricky morning transition. Nora always came home with Mrs. Strike stories: how funny she was, how she'd taken the time to raise the spirits of a kiddo having a tough day, or just giving a much needed hug to a student. On top of her overwhelming kindness, Sarah always has a smile to offer, and her commitment to a theme or costume day is unparalleled. Years later, Nora and her classmates still look forward to visiting Mrs. Strike to see what fun and wacky costume she has created, complete with matching wig. I'll always be so grateful that Nora's first teacher made her feel cared for, and a part of the larger community.