Our Employee of the Month is Neorah Martin from Chicago!
Miss Neorah has been with Apollo and Daystar for two years now. In that time, Neorah built amazing relationships with the Daystar families and community. Her bright uplifting spirit and focus on education and development of life skills has added to the growth of the program.
Neorah, thank you for being such an outstanding employee and teacher.
To show our appreciation for your dedication and hard work – please check your email this week for a special gift from us.
Check out our interview with Neorah below:
- Who are you, where do you come from, where are you going?
Hello, My name is Neorah(Nicole). I am a long time educator for more than 10 years, a wife of an amazing husband and a mommy to 4 awesome children! I traveled far far away from my home town of Stockton, California to find Apollo After Schools here in Chicago and have been loving it ever since I’ve joined the team!
- How long have you been teaching with Apollo?
I have been teaching with Apollo since 2023!
- What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since you started teaching?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that there is NO I in Team. You need all of the pieces of a puzzle to make a complete picture and this is how I live life and how I love to educate my students and elevate my team.
- How do you motivate your students to succeed?
I motivate my students by focusing on the value of self love and respect. That is respect for oneself, others and the environment. Also, to be proud of what they bring to the table and what they have to offer each and every day.
- What is your most memorable memory from your time as an Apollo instructor?
One of my most memorable memories would be when one of our students expressed to their parents that they loved being at Apollo and that they never wanted to be picked up early. This was memorable because it let me know that something that we’re doing is working! Our students value the time, love and effort that Apollo staff put in and that they feel the care and truly want to be having a fun, enriching experience with us. These types of moments remind you why you do what you do!
- If you could retire tomorrow and never have to worry about money again, what would you do with your time?
If I could retire tomorrow, I would dedicate my life to helping others and spreading love and joy everywhere. I truly love making people smile and making connections that last a lifetime. I would also continue working with children in some type of capacity.
- What is an unusual place you have been to?
Not sure if it is unusual but I’ve been to Australia and the coral reefs.
- Do you have a talent that not many people know about?
I love to sing… and dance!
- What’s your #1 teaching tip?
Number one teaching tip is to “SHOW UP” everyday! Show up with your attitude, with your presence, with your preparedness, and your willingness to make it happen for the students! Why, because the students feel, they know when you’re really engaged. It will make all the difference in the world…. Everything else will come.
- What’s your favorite classroom Attention Getter?
Bum BuDA BUMP Bump….. BUmP BUMP!
- What is something interesting that you’re involved in, outside of Apollo After School?
I am a part of a Homeschooling co-op
- How do you spend your summer breaks?
Summer breaks are usually spent with family on vacation however this summer I will be A Camp Director for a Summer Camp!
- Star Wars, Star Trek, or they’re both lame?
Star Wars!
- What do you like most about working with Apollo?
I love being a part of the team! Apollo is innovative and we love to find out what makes each student tick and then we cultivate that!
