Memorial Elementary School 2026

Anna Britt

Memorial Elementary School - Elementary Special Education Resource Teacher
E-mail congrats

Teaching Philosophy

I have and will always consider myself a lifelong learner who strives to not only do my best for the interest of children, but for the teachers and the community as well. This is my eighteenth year of teaching in the wonderful district of Plano ISD and I look forward to many more years.

My philosophy of teaching is shaped by my experiences as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, dual language teacher, ESL specialist, special education teacher, and teacher mentor. These experiences have helped broaden my understanding of expectations, socioeconomic effects, student populations, and school environments. These roles have also reinforced my belief that effective teaching is grounded in strong relationships, reflective practice, and a deep commitment to equity. I believe all students can learn and thrive when instruction is intentional, inclusive, and responsive to their individual strengths and needs.

What makes me an outstanding teacher is my ability to apply a broad instructional lens while remaining deeply attuned to individual learners. My background in ESL, dual language education, and special education has strengthened my ability to differentiate instruction, scaffold language development, and implement research-based strategies that support diverse learners. As an instructional coach, I have developed the skills to analyze data, model effective instructional practices, and support teachers in refining their craft—skills that directly enhance my own classroom practice. I lead with empathy, clarity, and high expectations, fostering environments where both students and educators feel supported and empowered.

The rewards I find in teaching extend beyond my own classroom. I am deeply fulfilled by witnessing student growth, particularly when young learners gain confidence, independence, and a love for learning. Equally rewarding is supporting teachers as a mentor and coach—helping colleagues strengthen their instruction, overcome challenges, and recognize their impact on students. Seeing the ripple effect of effective teaching across classrooms and grade levels reinforces my passion for education and continuous improvement.

My beliefs about teaching are demonstrated through a collaborative, reflective teaching style. In the classroom, I use structured routines, hands-on learning, visual supports, and language-rich instruction to meet the needs of young learners. As a coach and mentor, I model best practices, facilitate reflective conversations, and provide constructive feedback grounded in trust and mutual respect. I believe professional growth mirrors student learning—it is most effective when it is ongoing, supported, and reflective. Through consistency, empathy, and purposeful instruction, I strive to create learning environments where both students and educators can thrive.

At the heart of my work is a deep love for teaching and a genuine commitment to the children and educators I serve. I am continually inspired by the resilience, curiosity, and growth I see in students and teachers alike. I believe that teaching is an “all for one and one for all” mindset. I know that I am only one part of a bigger picture. At Memorial Elementary, we believe we are a family. Every staff member on our campus is a stakeholder for each and every one of our students who will one day be a part of a future functioning world. I give each and every day more than just the status quo. I do not do this for the money or the pat on the back. I do this for the “light bulb” moments, the smiles, student successes, the funny stories, and the impact I know I can make on a student’s future. Teaching, for me, is not just a profession—it is a calling rooted in care, purpose, and the belief that every learner deserves to be seen, supported, and celebrated. It as a privilege to play a role in their journeys.

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Principal's Recommendation

Dear Members of the Teacher of the Year Selection Committee:

It is an honor to submit this recommendation for Anna Britt for consideration as Plano ISD's District Teacher of the Year. Anna exemplifies the highest standards of our profession through her profound and lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the entire campus community.

Anna Britt has served our district since 2008 and has been a valued member of our campus since June of 2014. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated remarkable versatility and expertise, having taught in monolingual and bilingual classrooms, served as an ESL teacher, instructional coach, and team leader; and now providing unparalleled service to students and families as a special education resource teacher. Anna has previously been honored as Memorial's Teacher of the Year- an achievement that speaks to her excellence in teaching, and the respect she commands among students and staff alike.

As a special education resource teacher, Ann Britt meets students exactly where they are and builds their confidence as learners. Students return to their general education classrooms from resource time with a positive attitude toward learning and a renewed belief in their own abilities. She is widely regarded as an expert in her field- diligent, patient, and intentional in developing plans that truly meet the needs of individual students. Her work consistently goes above and beyond what is required.

One shining example of her creativity and dedication is her work during fifth-grade "camp on campus," when our fifth graders attend outdoor camp and some stay behind for a camp experience at school. Anna designs masterful, engaging lessons that create such meaningful learning experiences; leaving students with a feeling that they are not missing a thing while their peers are off at camp. She works tirelessly to ensure that every student- especially those who may find school most challenging- feels valued, supported, and excited to learn.

Colleagues often remark that Anna Britt "does it all." She is equally effective delivering Tier I instruction, facilitating small-group learning, and providing targeted one-on-one support for students requiring differentiated instruction. Anna teaches both general education and special education with confidence and skill and is also bilingual- an invaluable asset to our school community. Beyond her instructional expertise, she is widely known for her kindness, selflessness, and unwavering support of her colleagues. Anna freely shares her time and ideas, responds to questions with grace, and consistently lifts the spirits of those around her. Her collaborative approach strengthens instruction across our campus and improves outcomes for all students. In addition, she serves as our campus AVID coordinator, where she has launched initiatives such as "AVID Ambassadors" and "We Are AVID Wednesdays" to highlight effective AVID instructional strategies, organizational tools, and a shared focus on college and career readiness.

Anna Britt creates a learning environment where every student is expected to grow academically, socially, and personally. She believes deeply in the potential of every child and every educator she comes in contact with. Her encouragement, professionalism, and dedication do not go unnoticed, and our campus is immeasurably stronger because of her presence.

Anna truly embodies the qualities of an outstanding educator and a natural leader among her peers. I cannot think of a more deserving candidate to represent our district as Plano ISD's Teacher of the Year. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this exceptional candidate.

Sincerely,

Stephanie J. Paholski
Principal
Memorial Elementary School