'Her Commitment To Her Students Is Evident:' Harlem Teacher Rolanda Blanc

HARLEM, NY — Great teachers matter. In Harlem, we're fortunate to have teachers like Rolanda Blanc.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize teachers and show them how much they’re valued and appreciated.

This submission comes from Wendy Diamond, who nominated Rolanda Blanc of Harlem.

Teacher’s name

Rolanda Blanc

How do you know the teacher?

I worked with her for 7 years

What does this person teach?

Special Education

Why do you believe the teacher should be recognized or honored?

The teacher should be honored for her unwavering passion and belief in her students, regardless of their disabilities. She instills in them a sense of empowerment, teaching them that they can achieve anything and that they possess inherent value. Her dedication goes beyond the classroom, as she tirelessly advocates for her students, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. Her commitment to her students is evident in the personalized attention she provides. She takes the time to understand each student’s unique challenges and strengths, crafting individualized learning plans that foster their growth and confidence. Her classroom is a sanctuary of inclusion, where every student feels valued and supported. During the pandemic, she demonstrated extraordinary compassion and initiative. Understanding the isolation her students faced, she took her own money to order pizzas and brownies, arranging for these treats to be delivered to their homes. This thoughtful gesture allowed them to celebrate Thanksgiving together online, maintaining a sense of community and connection during a challenging time. This act of kindness went beyond mere academic support, showing her students that they are cherished members of a caring community. Furthermore, she actively collaborates with parents and other educators to create a supportive network around her students. Her efforts have led to a more empathetic and supportive school environment, benefiting not only her students but the entire school community. Despite her remarkable dedication, she is sometimes misunderstood and even offended by those who do not grasp her profound commitment to education. She firmly believes that if children work hard and study diligently, they can create better lives for themselves. This belief in the transformative power of education drives her every effort and fuels her passion for teaching. Her inspirational work has a lasting impact on her students. In every sense, she embodies the spirit of a true educator. Her passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in her students make her a deserving candidate for honor and recognition. She is not just a teacher; she is a mentor, an advocate, and a beacon of hope for her students.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the teacher?

She firmly believes that if children work hard and study diligently, they can create better lives for themselves. This belief in the transformative power of education drives her every effort and fuels her passion for teaching.

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