Carlisle Elementary School 2026

Megan Jackson

Carlisle Elementary School - Dyslexia Reading Teacher
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Teaching Philosophy

My philosophy of teaching is rooted in the belief that literacy is a fundamental human right, and dyslexia is not a deficit of intelligence, but a diversity of processing. In the pivotal years of third through fifth grade, students transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." For a student with dyslexia, this transition can feel like a closed door. My role is to provide the "keys" to unlock those doors.

My beliefs are most visible in my daily teaching style, which is characterized by an explicit, systematic approach. This means utilizing the Orton-Gillingham approach of Take Flight—incorporating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile pathways simultaneously to enhance memory and learning.

On a typical day, you will see a "High-Structure, High-Warmth" environment, which empowers my students to move from frustration to a sense of success. The rewards I find in teaching are rarely found in standardized test data alone. Instead, my rewards are found in the "affective shifts" of my students and witnessing the moment the child realizes they are able to do it. The reward is the restoration of a child's self-esteem. When a student stops saying "I can't read" and starts saying "This is hard, but I have the tools to figure it out," I have achieved my greatest professional goal.

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Principal's Recommendation

Dear Teacher of the Year Selection Committee:

Megan Jackson is one of those extraordinary individuals who has a gift for teaching. For 23 years, Mrs. Jackson has served, with diligence and professionalism. Of those 23 year, her last 11 have been serving the students and families in PISD. It has been such a pleasure to work alongside her at Carlisle these past 2 years, and it is such an immense joy to join the staff in nominating her for Plano ISD Teacher of the Year.

First and foremost, Mrs. Jackson is a student. She constantly seeks out and learns new strategies and methodologies. Additionally, she is currently in school as she undergoes Take Flight training which is a two year program and consumes a considerable amount of time. She fully understands that as she grows, she is better able to serve the diverse needs of her students. As a master teacher, and teacher leader, she leads by example. Always modeling best practices; encouraging those around her, and maintaining a positive demeanor.

Sharing smiles, warm hugs and high expectations is how Mrs. Jackson builds long-lasting and strong relationships with her students. She is fully invested in her students, dedicating much time and attention to learning about their strengths, needs, and goals. She carefully builds on their strengths, helping children to reach and surpass their potential.

To parents, she serves as a valuable resource. Her strong sense of empathy, coupled with her experiences as a parent, have helped many families as they find themselves navigating through difficult times. Parents respect and support her high expectations, and quickly recognize the genuine concern that Megan shares for their children.

As a teacher of teachers, Megan has facilitated the development of teachers on her team and across the building. To her teammates, she is generous with her time, patient, and always has words of positivity and encouragement. Again, her expectations are high, but she empowers her colleagues to grow and succeed, as she recognizes that our growth as professionals directly impacts how successful we are with our students. Having observed first hand, the positive difference that Mrs. Jackson has made in the lives of many children and staff, I know that she is such a blessing to this campus and to the district at large.

In closing, Megan's greatest strength lies in her character. She is steadfast in her beliefs, and always treats others with kindness, courtesy and empathy. She has a great sense of humor and always seeks the high road and a "how do we move forward" attitude. I am certain that her colleagues at Carlisle would join me in saying it is our honor and privilege to work alongside her and to have her as a friend. It is without reservation, that I respectfully submit to you this letter nominating Mrs. Megan Jackson for the honor to represent Plano ISD as our Teacher of the Year.

Sincerely,

Dr. Linda Patrick
Principal
Carlisle Elementary School