Influencer of the Week: Nimisha Chotai, Whispering Oak Elementary

Nimisha Chotai serves as Whispering Oak Elementary School’s media specialist, librarian, digital assistant, textbook coordinator, leadership team member, Battle of the Books team member, News Crew coordinator and substitute teacher, and she handles lunch duty and afternoon duty.

“Mrs. Chotai works with assisting the school with their technology needs, assists students with reading and choosing good books, coaches the Battle of the Books team, (and) contributes to student information and recognition through coordinating the morning announcements and student recognition programs,” Principal Kip Montgomery said. “Mrs. Chotai is more of a behind-the-scenes person, however, the work she does contributes greatly to the school culture and student success. We couldn’t do it without her.”

What brought you to your school?

The location of the school and the fact that my child would be coming here one day.

What do you love most about your school?

I love that we are a Whispering Oak family that looks out for each other.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

To see the spark in a student’s eyes when they have found a book that they like and want to share that book with their peers.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I’m not sure. It would definitely be something that involves working with others, maybe training for adults.

Who influences you?

That’s a tough one; there’s no one individual. It really depends on the situation.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

I would say it was Mrs. Khan. She was the first female teacher I came across who was of Asian origin (Indian). As a child, that was really big, especially growing up in England having a role model like that. I loved that she allowed us to share our culture with other students and made us feel proud of who we are.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear,” by Don and Audrey Wood.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spending time with my family and friends, going to the movies and traveling.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

It’s a tossup between Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama. They are such an inspiration to young girls and women — that anything is possible if you work hard.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Charisma

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

Celine Dion and Ed Sheeran because they both have such powerful voices and I love their ballads. Genesis/ABBA brings up fond childhood memories.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving and Christmas because that’s the time that our whole family, including extended family, spend time together. Just love that!

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

I loved to play badminton, and I was on the school netball team.