- December 24, 2025
Leslye Grossmann is goal-oriented.
Having previously worked in finance, the Ormond Beach Elementary Teacher of the Year said that she strives to surpass all goals laid out by the district. It's what keeps her motivated as an educator.
Grossman is in her 22nd year of teaching in elementary school. She's currently teaching fourth grade.
"My favorite thing about being a teacher is watching the smiles of children while they are learning," she said. "So much is expected of fourth graders and when they understand the material, it gives me such a great satisfaction."
Grossman, a Mainland High School grad, originally went to school for marketing, obtaining a degree from the University of Florida. She took a break from her finance career to take care of her three daughters, and when she was ready to go back to work, she decided to become a teacher, using a Transition to Teaching Grant.
"I did a lot of volunteering and substitute teaching, as I wanted to be close to them," Grossman said, referencing her daughters. "I grew into the love of helping other children learn."
Being named OBE's Teacher of the Year makes her feel very honored, she said, adding that it's helped her recognize that she is a great leader and the nomination validates her growth and dedication.
"I work so hard and am so passionate about making sure all children in my class learn to the best of their ability, and this recognition of this is very rewarding," Grossman said.
Grossman will be retiring from teaching in September 2026. When not in the classroom, she spends most of her free time with her husband and her three daughters' families. They take trips to the mountains every year to hike, bike, shop and be outdoors. Grossman also stays active by playing pickleball and working out at the gym.
Her advice to students?
"I tell my students that no matter what life has dealt them, they have the ability to become anything they want to be," Grossman said.
