New Teacher Profile

Nikki Cater

Nikki was born in Sacramento and spent the majority of her childhood in El Dorado Hills. At a young age she developed a love for animals and wanted to be a veterinarian, but quickly learned that teaching was going to be her calling. This came about by spending many of her days off from school at her mother's classroom learning the ins and outs of the profession. Her mom, Kim Rabe, has been a teacher in the San Juan Unified School District for nearly 30 years and gave Nikki the inspiration to follow in her footsteps to become an educator herself. "I have always looked up to my mom and respect her for the hard work and dedication she has shown, especially in the classroom. She was a great role model for me growing up." Nikki knew that she wanted to be a teacher while staying in the Sacramento area and set forth to accomplish that goal.

After graduating from Oak Ridge High School, Nikki enrolled at Sierra Junior College to begin her Early Childhood Development classes. At the same time she was teaching at a preschool in Folsom; coincidentally this was the same preschool Nikki attended as a student many years before. There she learned that teaching was her love and helping kids was where her focus needed to be. "I always got satisfaction in helping a student overcome an obstacle or hardship they were facing. I want to make a difference in their life because I know how difficult it can be growing up," she revealed. After finishing at Sierra, Nikki was accepted into Sacramento State University and pursued her degree in Liberal Studies. While attending college she continued to teach preschool until finally receiving a bachelor's degree in 2003 and finishing the credential program shortly after.

Continuing to follow in her mom's footsteps, Nikki was placed during her credential program at Greer Elementary and then hired out of the gates at Mariposa Elementary, where her mom, Kim, had also previously worked. "I felt as if this path was chosen for me because every school where I work at had some past connection to my mom," Nikki said excitedly.

For the past two years Nikki has taught middle school at Sierra Oaks K-8. Although this is her third year at this school it feels as if she has found a place to call home. "It was difficult for me leaving Sierra Oaks after the first year and then continually moving to new schools nearly every year because of being pink-slipped, but I finally feel comfortable and grounded. I want to teach kids a love for learning that far exceeds my own classroom. It is really awesome to see my students grow as individuals. I'm there to help them navigate…to help mentally prepare them for later in life."

Nikki's first introduction to SJTA was at a meeting for new teachers about the year's possible lay-offs. This was also her first introduction to the SJTA's president, Steve Duditch. "Getting all this information at once was a little intimidating. I've never been too into politics, but knowing has helped me advocate for myself more and to ask questions."

It has been quite a ride from student to teacher over the past few years for Nikki. She remains positive and upbeat with every new challenge that comes her way, and she continues to provide the same enthusiasm throughout the school year. "Teaching remains one of the most difficult jobs but is hands down the most rewarding. I can't see myself anywhere else."