Crestview Elementary’s Nancy Flama: Making a Difference in Kids' Lives
By Evelyn Gallagher, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- Great teachers are often inspired by great teachers. Nancy Flama, a second-grade teacher at Crestview Elementary, was inspired by her third-grade teacher, Marcia Zawada at Kidder Elementary. Flama explained that Zawada was a very caring teacher. “She always had a special way of making her students feel safe, loved, and valued,” Flama stated. “The impact she had on me as a child is something I have always hoped to carry into my own classroom.”
After deciding to become a teacher, Flama went to the University of Akron, where she earned her undergraduate degree. Then, she continued college at Bowling Green State University for her master's degree. She began her teaching career in 2015.
Flama chose to teach elementary because she has always had a passion for caring for and inspiring others. “The elementary years are such an important time in a child’s life, and I love having the opportunity to help build their confidence, encourage their curiosity, and remind them of their potential,” she shared. Flama also feels that every child needs to feel safe, supported, and inspired to become the very best version of themselves.
Flama enjoys a lot of things about teaching, but her favorite things are watching each child grow and blossom throughout the year. “It is so rewarding to see their confidence grow, both academically and personally,” she noted. Flama also loves when former students come back to visit so she can see how much they have grown.
Teaching has impacted Flama’s life in many ways, including teaching her patience, empathy, and the importance of finding joy in the little things. Every year her students remind her how meaningful it is to make a difference in someone’s life, even in the smallest ways.
Teaching has allowed Flama to build meaningful relationships, inspire others, and continue learning and growing alongside her students. “I truly believe my students have impacted my life just as much as I hope I have impacted theirs,” she said.”
Evelyn Gallagher, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Nancy Flama.