Larissa Swasey: A Light at Mountainside Elementary
When first-grade teacher Larissa Swasey walks down the hallways of Mountainside Elementary, her former students don’t just wave. They light up!
It’s a fitting reaction for a teacher who has spent nearly two decades at Mountainside, ten of those at the helm of a first-grade classroom. This year, the school is proud to recognize Mrs. Swasey as the 2025-26 Teacher of the Year.
Larissa’s passion for working with young children began when she was just a student herself. "I've wanted to teach since I was in elementary school," she shared. "Teaching is a deeply rewarding career, and I always hoped to make a lasting impact on children, as my teachers did for me."
Her journey at Mountainside is a testament to her dedication to the community. Before stepping into her full-time role, she spent seven years as a part-time reading teacher while raising her own family. These years of dedicated service taught her the satisfaction of helping our youngest students. She knew early on that she wanted to work with “the littles.”
"Witnessing the growth that these little people make in one year is incredible," Larissa said. "To be able to spend each day with these amazing humans is my privilege and joy!"
Principal Cam Amott notes that Larissa’s success is built on a foundation of genuine connection and high standards. In her classroom, warmth and rigor go hand-in-hand.
"Mrs. Swasey is an amazing example of always making decisions based on what's best for her students," Principal Amott shared. "She has a gift for connecting with her students and their parents. Every child in Mrs. Swasey's class knows that they are loved and are expected to learn."
This balance of "love and expectations" is what creates the lasting impact seen long after students leave her classroom. They become confident learners by the time they reach the upper grades because they have had a teacher who truly saw them.
As Principal Amott summarized: "Larissa is incredible, and Mountainside is lucky to have her!"