Swanton Middle School Teacher Named OMLA Region Award Winner
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Angela Nowak, a 5th-Grade English Language Arts teach at Swanton Middle School (SMS), has been given an award for Regional Teacher Recognition for Excellence from Ohio Middle Level Association (OMLA) Northwest Region. Winners are nominated educators that have been found to promote middle school concepts through involvement in exemplary programs, leadership or research that serves the needs of middle level students. The announcement was made by SMS Principal Nicolette Starks following the Swanton Seven Initiative “House Reveal” celebration held on the school’s football field last Friday morning.
Ms. Starks read some of the tributes and accolades from Ms. Nowak’s colleagues and former students to the SMS student body, faculty and staff that explained her nomination why she was chosen to receive the prestigious award:
Angela Nowak is an exemplary educator whose dedication to the academic and personal growth of her students is nothing short of remarkable. She has consistently devoted her time and energy to various committees aimed at enhancing the educational experience for all students. Notably, Angela is an active member of the data team and has led the middle school’s initiative on standards-based grading. She has also taken on a leadership role in the Curriculum Choice Team, overseeing its successful implementation. Angela’s passion for teaching English Language Arts shines through in the creative and engaging lessons she develops for her students. She transforms her classroom into dynamic learning environments—such as a “fancy restaurant” where students explore individualized reading materials based on their interests and an “art studio” where they sculpt masterpieces out of ivory soap while studying Renaissance artists. These innovative approaches make learning both enjoyable and meaningful. Above all, Angela’s ability to connect with her students is what truly sets her apart. With a warm, calm, and welcoming demeanor, she creates a safe and nurturing environment where all students feel valued and supported. Walking into her classroom is akin to stepping into a space filled with care and encouragement. Many students choose to stay before or after school, seeking one-on-one guidance, as Angela is always willing to provide additional support. Her willingness to be a trusted adult for students who may need extra care outside of the classroom demonstrates her deep commitment to their well-being.
The students at Swanton Middle School have nothing but great things to say about Mrs. Nowak. Dezmon, a current 5th-grade student, shared his appreciation, saying, “Mrs. Nowak was nice enough to let me stay after her class to stack chairs because the hallways are so crowded, and I’m not a fan of fighting the crowd. During this time, we get to talk and she’s always so kind to me.” Other past students of Mrs. Nowak’s, Kaylee and Makayla, remember how kind and supportive she was. They both say, “Mrs. Nowak was one of my favorite teachers because she was just so nice and great to talk to. She was always supportive and made class fun!” Brooke recalls Mrs. Nowak’s creative lessons: “Her lessons were so good and she made a hard subject like writing way more fun. She also made sure to go slow and explain things well.” Izzy remembers just how genuinely kind and sweet Mrs. Nowak was, recalling, “The one day in her class my voice was completely gone and Mrs. Nowak was the only teacher to ask how she could help me feel better.” These heartfelt comments reflect the positive and lasting impact Mrs. Nowak has on her students, showing her dedication to their well-being, learning, and personal growth.
Team member, Kaye Batanian explains how much she admires Nowak as a person, “Having had the privilege of working alongside Angela Nowak for the past six years as a member of the fifth-grade team, I can confidently say that she has been an exceptional colleague, friend, and role model. During this time, I became a mother, and I often found inspiration in Angela’s ability to balance her professional and personal life. As a mother of four boys, she consistently demonstrates remarkable patience and passion in her work, motivating me to approach both work and home life with the same dedication.” Principal, Leigh Pancoast reminisces about the last observation in her classroom. “It is always a pleasure to observe Angela’s teaching. Her calm and composed demeanor, extensive knowledge, and the supportive rapport she builds with her students are truly admirable. She effortlessly fosters an environment of respect and engagement, impacting her students’ learning experience.”
Angela exemplifies the qualities of patience and flexibility that are essential in education. She is the model of adaptability, handling unexpected changes with grace and a positive attitude. She consistently approaches each school day with determination and a commitment to fostering a learning environment where all students can thrive. Angela Nowak’s unwavering dedication, passion for teaching, and genuine care for her students make her an outstanding candidate for the Regional Teacher Recognition for Excellence.
Ms. Nowak, a graduate of Whitmer High School and the University of Toledo, has been an educator for 18 years. She taught at St. Rose in Perrysburg for the first three years and has been at Swanton for the last 15. Prior to the announcement, Ms. Nowak was not informed of her selection. “It was a shock. I was stunned,” she said when she realized her name was about to be announced after a list of her accomplishments were read to the crowd. “Oh, my God, that’s me,” she thought when it finally sank in.
“I love the atmosphere of the community here and the small town,” she said. “I’ve been her long enough that I’m starting to have cousins and siblings of former students. So, it’s just nice that I’ve been able to see other generations of family come through. It’s a family atmosphere and I just love middle school.”
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Photo: Angela Nowak (white tutu and hat) and family
Fulton County Ohio Media 