'Honored' West Fargo teacher feels small moments make a big difference

As Anna Tykwinski strolls through the bustling halls of Westside Elementary School during lunchtime, she is met with a flurry of joyful greetings from former students. "Hi, Ms. Tykwinski!" they shout, their faces lighting up with excitement as they rush to give her a hug. It’s a heartwarming scene, a testament to the deep connections she fosters with her students. In her eighth year of teaching, Tykwinski has become a beloved figure in the lives of many children, and her recent recognition with the Honored National Teaching Award only underscores the impact she has on her students.

What Happened

Tykwinski was awarded the Honored National Teaching Award, which recognizes one nominated teacher each month for their exceptional contributions to their students' lives. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize and a feature on a podcast that celebrates inspiring educators. This recognition is not just about the accolades; it’s about the profound difference teachers like Tykwinski make in the classroom, especially for students facing challenges.

Her nomination came from Jamie Bommersbach, a parent who understood the unique bond Tykwinski formed with her son, Dax. As a second grader with ADHD and autism, Dax faced difficulties in social interactions and anxiety in the classroom. Bommersbach knew that Tykwinski’s methods were transformative, and she wanted the world to see how much of an impact this dedicated teacher had on her son’s life.

“She really deserves to be shown how appreciative I am, and how she really changed my kid's world,” Bommersbach expressed. It’s this kind of heartfelt appreciation that fuels Tykwinski’s passion for teaching, reminding her of why she chose this noble profession in the first place.

Building Relationships

Tykwinski's approach to teaching is centered around building relationships. With an average of 24 students in her classroom, it can be challenging to give each child the individual attention they need. However, Tykwinski makes it a priority to take those small moments, whether it’s a quick chat in the hallway or a smile as they pass by, to engage with her students. She understands that the foundation of effective learning is trust and connection.

“It can be difficult to make time for one-on-one interactions,” Tykwinski admitted, “but those small moments are what matter most.” She often incorporates smaller group activities into her lessons, allowing for more direct contact and fostering connections not only between herself and her students but also among the students themselves.

Tykwinski emphasizes the importance of understanding that every child learns differently. She teaches her students to celebrate each other's strengths and to support one another through challenges. By focusing on social skills like sharing, taking turns, and coping with disappointment, she prepares her students to navigate the complexities of life beyond the classroom.

Success Stories

One of the most poignant success stories from Tykwinski’s classroom is that of Dax Bommersbach. After a year of personalized support and encouragement, Dax transitioned from spending most of his time in the special education room to thriving in Tykwinski’s third-grade class. By the end of the year, he was participating fully in class activities without needing a behavioral technician by his side.

“By the middle of that year, he was in her class 90% of the time,” Bommersbach recounted proudly. “That was the big shift that we needed.” Tykwinski’s ability to create a nurturing environment allowed Dax to feel comfortable enough to engage with his peers, transforming his educational experience.

Tykwinski recognized the importance of Dax’s social connections and made it a point to invite him into the classroom during fun, unstructured activities. She worked diligently to match him with classmates who shared similar interests, such as history, which further helped him build friendships. “Once he started feeling more comfortable, he would want to come in on his own,” she said, highlighting the pivotal role of social integration in Dax’s development.

Parental Involvement

Tykwinski’s commitment to her students extends beyond the classroom walls. As a mother of young children herself, she understands the importance of communication between teachers and parents. She believes that parents should hear about their child's successes, not just the challenges. “I just think, what parent wouldn't want to hear those little tidbits?” she said, emphasizing the need for positive reinforcement.

This approach fosters a sense of community and trust among parents, which is crucial for the overall success of the students. Bommersbach expressed her gratitude for Tykwinski’s efforts, stating, “It means a lot that she took the time to find Honored and write an amazing nomination letter about her.” Such recognition from parents can be incredibly affirming for teachers, reminding them of the positive impact they have on their students' lives.

Tykwinski's efforts to include parents in the conversation about their child’s progress reflect her holistic approach to education. She recognizes that a strong partnership between home and school is essential for helping students reach their full potential.

The Community Impact

The impact of Tykwinski’s work extends far beyond the walls of her classroom. Her recognition as an Honored teacher serves as an inspiration for other educators in the West Fargo School District and beyond. It highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating teachers who go above and beyond for their students.

In a time when many teachers face burnout and challenges in the classroom, Tykwinski’s story serves as a reminder of the power of dedication and compassion. Her ability to connect with students like Dax not only changes individual lives but also enriches the entire community.

As Tykwinski continues her journey in education, she hopes to inspire other teachers to prioritize relationships and foster inclusive environments. She believes that when teachers are recognized for their efforts, it not only benefits them but also enhances the learning experience for their students.

Looking Forward

With her recent Honored National Teaching Award, Tykwinski is poised to continue making a difference in the lives of her students. She plans to use the $5,000 award to further her professional development and enhance her classroom environment. “I want to continue learning and growing as an educator,” she stated, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning.

Tykwinski’s story is a testament to the profound impact that dedicated teachers can have on their students’ lives. As she moves forward, she hopes to inspire more educators to embrace the importance of building relationships and fostering a supportive classroom environment.

In a world where challenges abound, Tykwinski’s approach serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us all that small moments can indeed make a big difference. As she continues her journey, the West Fargo community can take pride in knowing that they have such a passionate and committed educator shaping the future of their children.