Juliana Falanga of Ethel Schoeffner Elementary School won the New Teacher of the Year Award for St. Charles Parish Public Schools.
Superintendent Dr. Ken Oertling announced the award Jan. 8 while visiting Falanga’s classroom for a surprise visit.
Falanga, a third-grade teacher, said the moment was incredibly emotional.
“Just minutes before [Oertling arrived] our principal Vanessa Terry walked in and said they were taking new photos for the school’s website,” Falanga said. “I remember thinking it was a little strange and then the cameraman came in, followed by Vanessa and Dr. Ken Oertling. That’s when it instantly clicked.”
Falanga was in disbelief.
“Once the initial shock wore off, I just felt so honored and humbled to have been chosen, especially knowing how many incredible new teachers there are across the parish,” Falanga said. “What meant the most to me was getting to celebrate that moment with my students and my partner teacher. I truly wouldn’t be able to do any of this without them and sharing that joy with the people who support me every day made it even more special.”
Receiving this award means everything to her, Falanga said.
“It feels incredibly validating to know that the hard work, time and heart I pour into my students and my classroom are being seen and appreciated,” she said.
Falanga pointed out that teaching often involves a lot of effort behind the scenes.
“So, to have that work recognized is both humbling and deeply encouraging,” she said. “This award reminds me why I chose this profession and motivates me to continue giving my very best to my students, my colleagues and my school community every single day.”
Falanga joined Ethel Schoeffner Elementary School as a student teacher in January 2024. After graduating from the University of New Orleans with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in December 2024, she accepted a full-time position at the school in February 2025.
“I feel incredibly grateful to be part of my amazing school community,” she said.
At UNO, Falanga was recognized with several awards, including the Outstanding Undergraduate Elementary Education Major of the Year in 2024, the Tolmas Scholars Award, and multiple leadership awards for founding and leading a campus organization.
“I also had the privilege of placing first in my college at UNO’s Research Summit for my work on Pathological Demand Avoidance – a research experience that deepened my understanding of neurodiversity and the importance of flexible, student-centered teaching strategies,” Falanga said.
Falanga also brings into the classroom hands-on experience from her work at an ABA therapy clinic. Applied behavior analysis is a kind of research-based behavior therapy for people with autism and other developmental disorders.
Falanga was inspired by her mother to become a teacher.
“Growing up, I had a front-row seat to the impact she made every day in her classroom,” Falanga said. “I listened to her talk about her students, the challenges she faced and the joy that came from helping children grow.”
Watching her mother’s dedication, compassion and commitment to her students showed Falanga what it means to be an educator.
“Seeing the way that she poured her heart into her work made me want to follow in her footsteps,” Falanga said. “Her example inspired me to pursue teaching not just as a career, but as a way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
Falanga said a great teacher is someone who brings joy into the classroom every day, making learning exciting and meaningful for their students.
“A great teacher shows up for their students in every way they can, whether that’s offering guidance, encouragement, or simply being present and attentive to their needs,” Falanga said. “And a great teacher is someone who is willing to put in the hard work, time, and care to make sure every student has the chance to succeed and grow, both academically and personally.”
Falanga said that during one recent recess, a group of students spent the break talking with her.
“They stayed with me the entire recess, talking, laughing and joking around,” she said. “That moment really touched me. The fact that they wanted to connect with me during one of the few times they’re away from the classroom showed how much that relationship mattered, and it’s a moment I’ll never forget.”
Falanga said she feels lucky to have such a supportive team of fellow teachers.
“My partner teacher, Monica Mire, has been by my side every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement and unwavering support,” she said. “I truly wouldn’t be where I am without her.”
She said she is grateful for her English Language Arts and Social Studies teams, who make collaboration easy.
“That sense of belonging and support has made a bigger impact on me than I ever expected, and it’s one of the things I love most about teaching,” she said.
The administration at ESE has also been incredibly supportive, Falanga said.
“Whenever I have an idea, they encourage me to run with it, and whenever I need guidance or support, they’re immediately there with understanding and care,” she said. “Having worked at several schools, I can confidently say they are some of the kindest leaders I’ve had the privilege to work with.”
Falanga said hopes to inspire others to consider a career in education.
“Teaching is often described as overwhelming or underappreciated, and while it’s true the work is demanding, that’s only part of the story,” she said. “Teaching is hard, human work, but it’s also incredibly meaningful. Very few careers give you the chance to build real relationships, make a lasting impact, and grow alongside others every single day.”
Teachers help shape lives and create a space where students feel seen, supported and confident, she said.
“The challenges are real, but so is the joy — the small moments, the connections, and the growth you witness,” she said. “That joy is what makes teaching more than a job. It’s a calling.”
