Peg Nelson believes the classroom is more than a place to learn — it’s a place to grow, be seen, and to spark curiosity that lasts a lifetime. Teaching third through fifth grade at Valley View Elementary’s LEAP cluster, she believes that every day is an opportunity to foster that curiosity within her students, knowing that her students aren’t just learning from her — they’re teaching her as well. 

“I believe that one of the most important lessons that I can teach my students is that learning isn’t just going to stop when you get to 12th grade or graduate. It’s a lifelong process… we never stop reading, we never stop learning or seeking out information, and just loving that.” 

“I believe that one of the most important lessons that I can teach my students is that learning isn’t just going to stop when you get to 12th grade or graduate. It’s a lifelong process… we never stop reading, we never stop learning or seeking out information, and just loving that.” 

Peg carries forward the lessons she learned from her own teachers, remembering the moments and people who made her feel capable and special. “I had some wonderful teachers. My third grade teacher, Miss Light, was amazing and made me feel very special. She had days where you could be teacher for the day…. We got to sit in her chair… give the spelling test and maybe give out, like, the assignment and pass back papers.”

Those early experiences inspired the way she runs her classroom today, putting students front and center and letting them take ownership of their learning. “The kids are a part of what we do, and they get a lot of ownership. So I definitely put them front and center… a lot of where I’m more of the guide on the side, instead of being center stage.” Peg steps back as much as she steps in, giving her students the chance to explore, experiment, and even teach her things she didn’t know. 

For Peg, fostering curiosity doesn’t begin with lessons or assignments — it starts when every student has what they need to thrive, and knows support with that matters. “The support from Kids In Need has given me a way to kind of level the playing field for all of my students. So at the beginning of the year, they don’t have to bring the materials — we provide them.”

“The support from Kids in Need has given me a way to level the playing field for all of my students.”

Because of that support, Peg can focus on what truly matters: inspiring students, nurturing their confidence, and encouraging them to keep learning long after the bell rings. “We wouldn’t be able to do it without you guys.”

Read more stories about Teachers like Peg

At Kids in Need Foundation, we believe every student should have equal access to the opportunities and resources necessary for a quality education. Our mission is to create equitable learning spaces by providing essential supplies and support to under-resourced students and teachers across the country. As the only national nonprofit dedicated to serving schools where 70% or more of students are eligible for free or reduced-cost meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), we are committed to ensuring every student has the supplies they need to learn with confidence and reach their full potential.

Written by: Emily Pineda