Gold Star Alum Series: Joe Cella’s Inspiring Journey in Education

“I believe in the power of curiosity and the importance of fostering autonomy in children,” says Joseph Cella, an extraordinary educator and proud Erikson alum. Recently honored with the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, Joe’s journey in education is a testament to his dedication, passion, and innovative spirit.

The Spark of Teaching and Caring

Joe Cella’s journey into education began with early inspiration and hands-on experience within his own family. “When I was around 7, my parents separated and had more children. At 10, 12, 14, and 16 years old, I gained new siblings. I was both a brother and a caretaker, taking on responsibilities like babysitting, helping with homework, and being actively involved in their development,” Joe recounts. These experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to teaching and nurturing young minds.

Recognition and Gratitude

Receiving the Golden Apple Award is a remarkable achievement that validates the serious work being done in early childhood education. “I feel a lot of pride and gratitude,” Joe expresses. “Knowing that my community came forward to support me played a big part in this recognition.” This award has not only affirmed Joe’s efforts but has also brought a sense of pride and inspiration to his students and colleagues, showcasing the impact of dedicated educators.

Shaping Perspectives at Erikson

Joe credits his time at Erikson Institute for profoundly shaping his approach to education. “Erikson made me a better teacher and a better human…the institute’s emphasis on cultural diversity and development was pivotal. I work in a school with broad diversity—five or six home languages in the classroom. Understanding how culture shapes development has been essential.” Joe treasures specific lessons and experiences at Erikson that transformed his teaching, including hands-on projects and community-building exercises that emphasized the importance of cultural context in education.

Fostering a Caring Classroom

Joe’s teaching philosophy emphasizes giving children the autonomy to solve conflicts independently, fostering their problem-solving skills and sense of community. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to slow down and step back,” Joe explains. He recounts a memorable moment when a younger student, known for his possessiveness over toys, was involved in a dispute. Instead of intervening directly, Joe and his co-teacher observed from a distance. “We had taught the students various strategies to resolve conflicts. During this incident, another student noticed the conflict and brought our ‘toolbox’ over to help mediate. Simultaneously, another student offered alternative toys to diffuse the situation.” This incident powerfully demonstrated Joe’s commitment to creating an environment where children feel empowered to take charge and solve problems on their own.

Collaboration and Curiosity

Joe values autonomy and creativity in his teaching. “I try to stay curious about education and what we do,” he explains. This curiosity invites perspectives from colleagues and helps build a collaborative environment. Joe’s leadership style is characterized by inviting perspectives and fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking educational atmosphere.

Advice for Aspiring Educators

Joe’s wisdom for new teachers underscores the importance of mentorship and building supportive relationships: “Find mentors who can guide you and provide practical advice. Having someone to turn to can make a significant difference in your growth as an educator.” Joe also emphasizes the need for continuous self-reflection, adding, “Always ask yourself whether your actions are rooted in control or care for the children. Pause and reflect on your teaching practices. Understand why you are doing something. Is it for control, or is it truly for the benefit and care of the children?” This mindful approach helps create a nurturing and effective learning environment, ensuring that the needs of the children are always at the forefront.

Life Beyond the Classroom

Outside of teaching, Joe cherishes his time with his young family. “I love spending time with my kids, my wife and family,” he shares with a warm smile. His wife has a passion for baking, and Joe enjoys capturing her culinary creations through photography. “I’m learning more about food photography through books, and it’s become a fun hobby for me.” This love for photography mirrors his teaching philosophy—capturing moments of creativity and care, both in the classroom and at home.

A Commitment to Intentionality and Care

Joe’s thoughtful approach to both his professional and personal life exemplifies his commitment to intentionality and care. Whether in the classroom fostering young minds, at home with his family, or over a Zoom interview, Joe’s dedication and reflective nature shine through, making a lasting impact on everyone around him. Joe Cella’s journey is a shining example of dedication and the profound impact an educator can have on their community. His story is a testament to the transformative power of passionate, culturally aware, and innovative teaching. At Erikson Institute, we are proud to celebrate Joe’s remarkable contributions to education and look forward to seeing his continued impact on the world of teaching.