Northwest Elementary teacher Sara Daniel is a huge fan of books. In fact, if she were ever to write her autobiography, she would call it:                                      “What Are You Reading Lately?”

“I always try to start my year with lots and lots of book talks,” Daniel said. “It is my goal to inspire students to love reading and to try books they may not have
thought to pick up. When I hear from former students, ‘What are you reading lately?’ is always one of the first things I ask.”

Daniel has successfully inspired her students throughout her 17 years in education, including the past three at Northwest.

She was named a 2018-19 Daring Greatly Award winner. That award goes to an innovator, trailblazer and visionary who attempts new strategies, takes risks and embarks on new teaching adventures to inspire students to achieve greatness.  Daniel loves being a fifth-grade teacher. But if she had to do something else, it would definitely still involve books.

“If I weren't a teacher, I would love to be a librarian,” she said. “I love books and I love helping connect people with books they will love.”  Her advice for students who might be struggling in school? “Don't give up,” she said. “Find an adult you can trust to help you, focus on your strengths and don't quit trying when it gets hard. Also, be respectful. It has the power to change the conversation.”

 

Here are five more things to know about Sara Daniel:

If you could learn to do anything what would it be?
“I would love to learn to crochet. My grandma and my mom both tried to teach me, but I just never got the hang of it. I'd love to be able to make baby blankets and hats.”

If you could meet anyone living or dead, who would you meet?
“I have always be fascinated by history, so I would love to meet some of the leaders of the civil rights movement, especially Rosa Parks.”

What three traits define you?
“I think that I am compassionate, giving and loyal.”
What was the last experience that made you a stronger person?
“Every year I teach makes me a stronger teacher than the year before.”

How do you define success?
“I feel that successful people contribute in positive ways to the world, and I strive to make my contributions to the world positive every day.”