The Seattle Teacher Residency affirmed Nirvana’s philosophies of putting students’ needs first, teaching with an accurate and justice-framed lens, and taking on systemic inequities head-on.
At Olympic Hills Elementary, Seattle Teacher Residency graduate Nirvana Kelly is creating a compassionate, student-driven, and inclusive classroom environment.
Nirvana’s journey into education began in Atlanta, Georgia, where she worked as a music teacher and also engaged in racial equity and social justice work.
Seeking to expand their toolkit of teaching strategies, Nirvana decided to pursue a career as a classroom teacher. “What inspired me to become a teacher is having a real impact on youth,” Nirvana shares. “I saw this opportunity as a great way to improve my skills and develop into a classroom teacher.”
Nirvana found the Seattle Teacher Residency (STR) program to be an ideal pathway for this transition.
“The STR program has given me the opportunity to be hands-on in the classroom, working with my mentor teacher and students every day,” she explained. “The students are wonderful, and building relationships with them has easily been the best part of this experience.”
Beyond the classroom, the STR program has had a profound personal impact on Nirvana.
“It’s about knowing who I am, understanding my positionality, and being the best person I can be—not just the best teacher.” This internal work has helped Nirvana create a more joyful and authentic learning environment for their students.
Nirvana also emphasizes the social justice lens that STR brings to teaching. “One of the ways STR is unique is that it prepares you to have a lens for social justice,” she said. “There’s a certain amount of criticality you engage with—whether it’s in your teaching practice, with your students, or with the larger education system. Education is a big institution, and it requires people who are willing to navigate and dismantle inequitable structures.” This commitment to equity is central to Nirvana’s approach, as she works to create a safe and consistent environment for all students.
Reflecting on the impact of their students, Nirvana is filled with admiration. “My students are hilarious, brilliant, and so ready to learn,” she shared with a smile. “They learn so much in such a short amount of time, and it’s inspiring to see that growth. It’s rewarding to know that while I’m leaving an imprint on them, they’re also leaving an imprint on me.”
Through their journey with the Seattle Teacher Residency, Nirvana has gained the skills, perspective, and passion needed to make a lasting impact on their students. She is also taking steps into leadership, joining STR’s new C-Suite Fellowship for Black alumni.
“The program has helped position me to further educational equity by giving me an amazing opportunity to work in diverse school environments,” she explained. “It’s about meeting the needs of students who are furthest from educational justice, and making sure that every child knows they are capable and valued.”
Learn more about the Seattle Teacher Residency and make a gift to support future educators like Nirvana.