Nicole Talkington: New teachers join staff at local schools

Preschool students and the preschool teacher, Nicky Talkington, arrived at Ritzville Grade School for the first time at the start of the school year. A recent graduate of Gonzaga University, Talkington currently resides in Lamont and was recently hired as the preschool teacher for Ritzville.

Talkington has an endorsement in special education and in early childhood development. She has previously worked at Millwood Early Childhood Center and at Salnave School in the Cheney School District.

Talkington said that she has always loved working with children, whether it is as a teacher, babysitter or camp counselor.

During her time as a student teacher, Talkington worked in a classroom with autistic children and credits it as the most amazing experience of her life as it helped her develop as an educator.

“I want all the children to be Kindergarten ready,” Talkington explained as her goal for each student in her classroom. “I want the year to be successful, encouraging and fun.”

Talkington graduated from Harrington High School and enjoys being able to work in a small town where everyone is friendly and welcoming. With 33 kids in the classroom during the two sessions four days a week, Talkington is glad the fellow staff members are so helpful.

Talkington enjoys the high energy level of the preschool group because it helps provide her with enthusiasm to lead and teach the children.

Throughout the year, Talkington looks forward to helping the children develop academically and prepare them for their future as students.

To contact Talkington, call Ritzville Grade School at 659-0232 or by email at [email protected].