Teacher Appreciation Week: Nicole Bain-Parker at Kensington

Glens Falls City School District recognizes national Teacher Appreciation Week by highlighting committed and enthusiastic teachers from every one of our schools each day of the week! Read on for an inside interview with Nicole Bain-Parker—one of the most dynamic teachers around our district!

Mrs. Bain-Parker is a reading teacher at Kensington Road Elementary School. She grew up in the area, having graduated from Queensbury High School before going on to get her undergraduate degree from Plattsburgh State University in Elementary Education Birth-6, and her graduate degree from The College of Saint Rose for Reading K-12. This is her 24th year teaching at Glens Falls City Schools! 

“Nicole has a special gift for seeing exactly what a student needs and shifting her approach to make sure it clicks,” says Kensington Principal Marissa Macey. “She’s built such a genuine rapport with her students and her fellow teachers, making her a natural leader and a total joy to work alongside. Nicole is the definition of organized and driven. She puts in the hard work every single day, and it’s clearly paying off. Seeing her students make such huge academic gains is a testament to her dedication. We are so lucky to have her on the team; she makes a real difference in her students' lives, one page at a time!”

What do you do to engage your students? What makes your teaching and learning style or environment unique?

There are several things I do to engage my students. The most important is to provide a calm environment with minimal distractions for them to work in. This reduces the stress and gives opportunities for retention. My students are more willing to take risks, ask questions, make mistakes and participate when they feel safe. I have clear routines and low-pressure expectations in my room so the students don’t feel overwhelmed. I build relationships with each student and connect materials to their interests. I use a variety of instructional strategies and always celebrate their progress. 

Why do you think it's important to teach the way you do?

I think it is important to teach the way that I do because most of the students I work with do not like reading because it is hard for them. I have to build a level of trust to help them gain confidence and learn to enjoy reading.  

Describe your best lesson ever, or one you and students really enjoy.

Every lesson I teach is different. My favorite lessons are the ones where a child realizes that they can read something independently. When they persevere through a passage or book and their eyes light up, knowing that they did it themselves! My favorite words to hear from a child are, “I can read!” 

What's the best thing about GF Nation?

The best thing about GF Nation is the connections that I have made with students, families and the staff I work with. It is a great community. The moment that you are feeling overwhelmed, there is always something that reminds you of the good work you are doing.

Some fun facts about Mrs. Bain-Parker:

I’ve coached Battle of the Books teams at Kensington for several years, and this year’s third grade team took second place in the competition! I enjoy being outdoors and spending time at home with my husband, dog (Marti) and 3 siamese cats (Avery, Neo, and Eli).