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Kids, if you took a time machine and set it 21 years ago you might bump into Mrs. Nolan and her two co-captains of the girls' basketball team: Kim Vicari (center) and Alyssa May (left).
Mrs. Nolan is a gym teacher at River Dell High School. She teaches mostly freshmen and juniors. She is one of six total gym teachers.
She is more than just a gym teacher to many students. She is a constant source of positivity, encouragement, and kindness for everyone she teaches.
Junior Dalia Interiano described Mrs. Nolan as a “kindhearted, funny teacher” in an interview.
Mrs. Nolan’s impact goes beyond physical education. She teaches important life lessons about perseverance, respect, and believing in yourself. She allows her students to talk to her about anything they want, whether it is school-related or outside problems. She welcomes her students with open arms and a warm heart.
“I don’t really like gym, but she makes me enjoy it,” junior Oliva Bagnato said in an interview.
Her supportive nature makes a lasting impression, and students leave her class not only physically stronger, but also more confident and motivated. Mrs. Nolan is a teacher who is able to make students feel comfortable and maintain a positive attitude throughout the period.
She is also the coach for the River Dell Middle School boys basketball team. She is able to build connections with these students before they come to high school. One of her players, Luke Koth, said, “She’s so fun and so positive.”
Mrs. Nolan isn’t just a teacher to her students; she is someone they can look up to. Former River Dell student Izzy Casasola said, “She always had so much energy, and it lightened my mood every day.”
Mrs. Nolan has impacted many of her students’ lives and is expected to continue to do so.