Durham, NH (March 14, 2025) – University of New Hampshire student Anglea Spathanas has been named a Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar and awarded a $1500 scholarship in recognition of her inspiring leadership, personal narrative, and academic achievement.
The Nancy Larson Foundation proudly supports students across the country majoring in elementary education by awarding scholarships to deserving students each year. Spathanas is one of eight recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.
In her personal narrative, Angela explained, “My future career found me when I applied to substitute teach during college. I was assigned to be a one-on-one paraprofessional for a kindergarten student for a week. When I returned the second day, the principal told me I was the first substitute to ever return for this student. By the end of the week, I was asked to continue to be his paraprofessional for the remainder of the year. I accepted the position and spent the rest of the school year gaining his trust and bonding with him. Although he certainly exhibited some difficult behaviors, I did not let them bother me. I was able to help him express his feelings while still staying in the classroom to learn. This experience really solidified my choice to become a teacher.”
“Angela’s personal narrative showed the committee that she feels empowered to teach diverse learners and those needing extra support, which we know is critical in today’s educational environment,” remarked Nancy Larson. “Angela has proven she has the empathy, desire, and skill to be a great teacher.”
Larson, an author, retired teacher, and curriculum director, has dedicated her life to advancing elementary education. Nancy Larson® Science K–5 programs are classroom-tested and prepare children for upper-level science classes and careers in science. The program was written to provide in-depth science content in an easy-to-teach format.
The Nancy Larson Foundation The Nancy Larson Foundation, founded in 2006 in Old Lyme, CT, awards prospective elementary educators scholarships to encourage and support their education. For more information, visit www.nancylarsonfoundation.org.