INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Paramdai “Vicky” Somwaru, Hamlin Elementary

Paramdai “Vicky” Somwaru is one of the fourth-grade teachers at Hamlin Elementary School. She goes above and beyond for her students every day; leads the school’s chess team; spends countless hours planning, preparing and teaching her students each year and sets high expectations both academically and socially that help her students to grow and be successful.

She also is an adult ESOL teacher. She has been named Teacher of the Year, received the Disney “Teacherrific” award for two years and earned National Board Teacher Certification. The Lockheed Martin-University of Central Florida program paid for her Master of Mathematics and Science Education.

What brought you to your school?

I like new things! Hamlin is in a newer community and is closer to my evening job and home. Also, the fire alarm system is comforting and does not deafen the eardrums. Every school should have a new, updated fire alarm system!

What do you love most about your school?

I get to interact with students from various backgrounds and perspectives and some new to the United States. Hamlin provides a supportive and collaborative environment, where the emphasis is on student-centered learning. Everyone works toward making a positive impact on students’ lives; academic, social and emotional learning experiences; and growth.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Seeing students succeed and make significant progress in their learning, which translates to making a positive impact on their lives; witnessing “aha” moments; the feedback and emails from parents and students about the positive impact of learning growth and success.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I was born to teach! It is my calling, and I can’t see myself doing something different. Plus, a teacher gets to be anyone and everyone in the classroom. I can play the role of a doctor, lawyer, nurse, psychologist — whatever the content calls for. I get to engage my students and inspire them to explore new learning experiences.

Who influences you?

My students, positive people and selfless humans. They are in the supermarkets, we work with them, we walk by them, and they wear that kind smile.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

Mr. Meltz, taught “logic” at my junior high school. I enjoy challenges, and his class was a challenge.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

Dr. Seuss because every child learned his or her first words from his books. Recent favorites are “Who Was?”, “Where Is?”, “What Was?” These books give us life lessons. They teach us about hardships, love and fear and broaden our awareness of the world.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I like to catch up on personal reading and self-help books, hug trees, meditation, ride my bike on the trail, and spend time with family.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa or Gandhi because I consider these people to be selfless, they cared about humanity, and they inspired others to care too. President Donald Trump because he needs to know that he holds the key to the future of our children and grandchildren, to remind him to think with the kids in mind!

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

My superpower would be to read and change minds for the betterment of the world.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

Bob Marley, Sting and Kes

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

Pizza and mac-and-cheese and they still are.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas, because even if you are a Hindu/Muslim, everyone is aware of Christmas, and it’s a time when everyone thinks about the children other than their own.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

Merly and Tope and I have kept in touch. Both live in New York.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

Graduated at the top 10% of my class and received scholarships for college