Frankford Middle School 2026

Kourtney Gergeni

Frankford Middle School - Middle School Social Studies & PALS Teacher, Grades 7-8
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Teaching Philosophy

My purpose as an educator is to design meaningful learning experiences for all students, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or background. Through these experiences, I strive to foster curiosity, a love of learning, and strong critical thinking skills that empower students to engage thoughtfully with the world around them. These beliefs have guided my commitment to serving in Title I schools throughout my career. I began teaching in and around inner-city Chicago and, when I moved to Texas in 2023, intentionally sought out Frankford Middle School because of its strong vision for supporting students in vulnerable populations and its emphasis on collective responsibility and collaboration.

Students learn best when they feel safe, valued, and challenged. I work to create a classroom where students are known, accepted, and encouraged to take academic risks. I build strong relationships through humor, consistency, and genuine care, whether during instruction or restorative conversations. At the same time, I deeply value collaboration and partner closely with colleagues to include the best ideas and strategies. Once trust with students is established, I design relevant and engaging learning experiences using a wide range of strategies, often shaped by collaborative planning and shared reflection. This approach builds student confidence, supports rigorous learning, and ensures students consistently encounter meaningful and engaging instruction.

My instructional practices reflect my beliefs that all students can learn with the correct support and all teachers are reading and writing teachers. Literacy is embedded in my social studies classroom through purposeful reading, writing, discussion, and analysis. I engage students by creating a structured environment that still leaves room for curiosity, creativity, and unexpected learning moments. Lessons regularly include peer collaboration, content-rich and standards-based materials and intentional scaffolding to support every learner. Through collaboration in the planning and teaching process, students have opportunities to process ideas, strengthen understanding, and express their thinking with confidence while also developing academic language.

I believe planning should be both intentional and collaborative. I consider what students need to know and be able to do, frequently invite other educators into my classroom, and design instruction that builds on prior knowledge while moving students forward. I use differentiation to ensure equitable access to learning and continuously reflect on my practice to better serve all students. I actively seek feedback, share strategies, and contribute to a culture where educators grow together.

Ultimately, my goal is to make a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and my school community. I strive to model lifelong learning, collaboration, and equity in action. As a teacher, teammate, and leader, I am committed to creating classrooms and school communities where every student is supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

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Principal's Recommendation

Greetings,

As Principal of Frankford Middle School, I am honored to write this letter in support of Mrs. Kourtney Gergeni for Plano ISD Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Gergeni serves in multiple leadership roles on our campus, including 8th grade Social Studies teacher, PALS coordinator, and mentor teacher. However, her influence extends far beyond her classroom. Mrs. Gergeni is an exceptional educator, a true culture builder, and a highly respected teacher leader at Frankford.

In the classroom, Mrs. Gergeni exemplifies excellence in teaching. She is a dedicated social studies educator with eight years of experience who consistently empowers students to develop a deeper understanding of historical events and perspectives. Through intentional planning and a student- centered approach, Mrs. Gergeni creates meaningful learning experiences that challenge and meet the diverse needs of all learners. This year, Mrs. Gergeni has made a conservative effort of meeting the learning needs of our Emergent Bilingual students by incorporating targeted literacy strategies that strengthen their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. Additionally, Mrs. Gergeni prioritizes building strong, personal relationships with her students, providing whole-child support that fosters both confidence, and academic growth.

As PALS coordinator, Mrs. Gergeni is a true culture builder, ensuring that our staff feels recognized, valued, and appreciated. In collaboration with her PAL students, she organizes staff recognition initiatives and community events that promote Planos ISDs Code of Civility by fostering a culture of kindness, responsibility, and pride across our campus. Her efforts have boosted morale and have also reinforced a sense of community and shared purpose at Frankford.

As an instructional leader, Mrs. Gergeni is an invaluable member of our staff, playing a key role in supporting campus initiatives and fostering professional growth among her colleagues. She serves as the Social Studies Professional Learning Community (PLC) lead, providing guidance and support to teachers in curriculum development, instructional strategies, and lesson design. As a Teacher Mentor, Mrs. Gergeni provides guidance, encouragement, and hands-on support to novice teachers, helping them grow their skills and confidence in their craft.

In closing, Mrs. Gergeni is an outstanding educator, a respected leader, and an invaluable member of our campus community. Her leadership is invaluable, and she has made a profound and lasting impact on the students she teaches, our staff, and the Frankford community. It is truly an honor to recommend her for Plano ISD Teacher of the Year.

Sincerely,

Felipe Vargas
Principal
Frankford Middle School