The First-Year Teacher of the Year award is a prestigious achievement in Wake County for teachers who show incredible dedication to their jobs. Recently, Cailin DeLeo, a history teacher at Athens Drive, was honored as one of the award recipients.

DeLeo is an Athens Drive High School alumni, now she teaches World History.

“I had a lot of great teachers growing up, I love helping people achieve their goals. This is why I decided to become a teacher,” said DeLeo.

Her journey into education was fueled by her admiration for those who shaped her own learning experiences, and now she is paying it forward to all the students who step foot into her classroom.

Over the last year, DeLeo’s dedication in the classroom has impacted the lives of her students.

“Ms. DeLeo’s teaching has helped me understand history better. She does many hands-on lessons, like making crafts, for example, that contributed to my understanding of the material. Her passion makes learning exciting,” said DeLeo’s student, Na’Kaylah Lee Cheek.

Winning First Year Teacher of the Year was an unexpected but cherished moment for DeLeo.

“I was shocked when I found out that I had been nominated for the First Year Teacher of the Year award. I didn’t realize that the impact I had on students was being watched. It was such an honor. I work with so many great people, and I couldn’t be more grateful,” said DeLeo.

While the award highlights DeLeo’s personal achievements, she is quick to mention that her success is rooted in the collaborative environment of her workplace. The support from fellow educators, administrators, and staff has been invaluable in helping DeLeo navigate her first year of teaching.

“I am really proud to work with the people I do. It takes a village to make an impact on our students. I owe some of my success to them,” said DeLeo.

DeLeo’s colleagues also recognize the dedication and lively enthusiasm she brings.

“Ms. DeLeo is super creative, incredibly thoughtful, and kind. She goes above and beyond for all of us in the department and is extremely organized. She is intentional with her work and her fresh ideas have brought an incredible amount of joy to our department,” said Sarah Shouse, Social Studies Co-Department Chair.

With her passion for education, DeLeo hopes to continue encouraging critical thinking with interactive classroom activities and encouragement in the years to come. She aims to ensure that history is analyzed in meaningful ways, not simply memorized.

“I hope to challenge my students more and make them think deeply about history. I want them to leave my classroom believing in themselves and the work that they have put in,” said DeLeo.