Prezioso Selected by Peers for Excellence in Teaching
Sarah Prezioso, Nash Community College Director of Early Childhood Education, has been selected as the college’s 2018 J. Edgar and Peggie T. Moore Excellence in Teaching Award recipient.
Excellence in Teaching Award nominees are full-time faculty members chosen annually through a peer and student evaluation process. A well-defined set of criteria is used to identify and reward quality teaching. The award recipient is chosen by secret ballot by the full-time faculty, and represents the best in community college instruction. Prezioso will receive a cash award from Ed and Peggie Moore of Rocky Mount for this honorable distinction.
“In early childhood education, we describe teaching as an art and a science. Students learn this concept in the very first course. As an early childhood faculty member, I demonstrate this concept for students in a practical way,” Prezioso said. “The science of teaching is the easy part, using research-based strategies to ensure student retention and success. The art of teaching is the challenge, creatively using the strategies to create a positive learning environment for students.”
Prezioso’s desire to become a teacher developed at the early age of 10. She discovered her passion was working with children and families, which led her to major in child development. This love of teaching Early Childhood Education has grown during her tenure at Nash Community College. She said, “I want to save all of the children.” And preparing quality teachers helps bring her one step closer to that goal. As her students become educators, many contact her with updates on their careers and goals.
For as long as Prezioso has been teaching at Nash, she said she has been in awe of the passion and commitment demonstrated by colleagues. “Many NCC students have barriers and challenges that traditional college students may not encounter,” she said. She feels that developing engaging relationships with students takes time, but the relationships help support academic success. “And, it also demonstrates to students the kind of professional relationships to form with future colleagues and families,” she added.
“The Excellence in Teaching award is a prestigious distinction. Teaching is a mission for me, a profession dear to my heart. I could not be more proud of this nomination,” Prezioso said. “It is an honor to be nominated with so many other amazing instructors.”
Prezioso graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of North Carolina and a Master of Science degree in Family, Culture and Society from Wheelock College. She lives in Rocky Mount with her husband and daughter.
