Jane Stewart | Award of Excellence

Jane Stewart | Award of Excellence

Nelson Armstrong

Nelson Armstrong had never considered special education a teaching path, but he always knew he wanted to use his skills and talents to give back. He graduated from Temple University in December of 2021 with a degree in Music Education with a concentration on Jazz Studies. He wasn't sure what to expect from an education job search mid-pandemic in the middle of an ongoing school year, but it just so happened that Westview was looking for a music teacher in the fall of 2021, and Nelson was the perfect fit.

"Special Education found me," said Nelson. "I hit the ground running and was able to start less than a month after graduating [Westview] has forever changed my outlook on education, and I am grateful."

As Westview's music teacher, Nelson teaches every Westview student from youngest through Middle School every week (sometimes multiple times per week). Nelson sees his work at Westview as going above what is taught in the classroom.

"It is so rewarding to see the growth in students and see them develop skills that will help them navigate life," said Nelson. "These skills often have little to do with music, drama, or any class for that matter, but watching students learn and apply life skills in real-time is the most rewarding thing for me. I am so happy that it is my job to help facilitate that."

A colleague said of Nelson, "He speaks to the children in a respectful and professional way, and he really cares about the well-being of each student."

Another complimented Nelson on how well he keeps the children engaged and interested in learning all things music. This colleague said, "He shows compassion and instructs in a fun and proficient way."

The day is not without its challenges. "Westview kids are curious and inquisitive," said Nelson. "I do my best to embrace the challenge of having tough but necessary conversations."

It is clear that Nelson easily engages with students and makes individual connections in a way that is truly magical. Nelson also makes magical things happen beyond the classroom.

As the one-man show of Westview's music department, Nelson wears many hats during the school year. Aside from daily music classes and co-teaching middle school drama, he is involved across campus in varying activities. Among the list of things we can credit him for are the Upper School Talent Show, the All-School Pep Rally, the much-loved Holiday Play, and the Middle School Drama production.

Kaylee Bond, Westview art teacher, praises Nelson as a friend and teacher, "Nelson has been my partner for the past school year, and I can honestly say I do not know what I would have done this year without him. He is an integral part of what makes Westview the 'best little school on the planet.' He is also an incredible friend and voice of reason."

Nelson expressed his gratitude and honor at receiving the Jane Stewart Award this year. "I work with so many amazing teachers every day, and I am constantly learning from them. To know that I have their respect as a teacher and that they appreciate what I bring to Westview means everything to me."

With tremendous admiration, we are pleased and proud to honor Nelson Armstrong as the 2023-2024 recipient of the Jane Stewart Award of Excellence. This award is given to a teacher who provides exemplary service to the students and the school and has shown exceptional dedication, loyalty, passion, and skill in helping students achieve their goals.