Capri Bell Salaam is a one-of-a-kind educator dedicated to the development of the whole child. The 2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Central Arkansas before beginning her career as a third-grade teacher. After completing her first year, she decided to further her education at Arkansas Tech University, earning a Master of Arts in teaching with an emphasis in middle-level education. Salaam transitioned to North Little Rock Middle School, where she has spent the last eight years of her career.

As a distinguished educator, she prides herself on her ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds to create a safe learning environment focused on student-centered learning. Students and colleagues praise her “over-the-top” shenanigans for making learning fun as she dances through the hallways and sometimes in costume! Salaam ignites her students’ interest, bringing history to life by fostering excitement for learning with innovative best practices. As a multi-classroom lead teacher, she provides coaching to colleagues to grow instructional capacity with productive feedback.

Salaam recently completed a second master’s degree from Harding University in special education to advocate for children with special needs and challenges, including her own son. She believes all children have the innate ability to learn, with the assistance of a strong support system and proper resources. Outside of the classroom, Salaam enjoys time with family and giving back to the community by volunteering with local charities.