Thomas Elementary School 2026

Daniela Kerpens

Thomas Elementary School - Title I Coach & Elementary Math Teacher
E-mail congrats

Teaching Philosophy

I believe teaching is both a privilege and a calling—one that chose me rather than the path I initially envisioned for myself. While teaching was not my original career choice, I have come to understand that destiny led me to this profession, which has helped me grow in every area of life while also allowing me to impact countless young hearts and minds positively. Teaching has been the perfect fit for my enthusiastic, energetic, and naturally humorous personality. Through teaching, I have learned patience, resilience, empathy, and the power of believing in others, and these lessons have shaped me both professionally and personally.

During my first eleven years in elementary bilingual education, I worked to ensure students developed strong academic skills while honoring their language, culture, and identity. As an immigrant and second-language learner myself, I connected deeply with my bilingual students, relating to them on a more personal level. I became a role model; someone they could look up to and aspire to be one day. I view bilingualism as a strength and work to foster learning environments where students are confident and capable in both languages. By holding high expectations and providing intentional scaffolds, I make rigorous learning accessible to every child. Equally important are the strong relationships and partnerships I have built with students and families, which have been central to my success as an educator.

Throughout my career, I have worn many hats and taken on numerous additional roles in the service of students and my campus. One especially meaningful role is serving as the AVID coordinator for the past eleven years at Thomas. In this role, I have seen firsthand how students who are given the right tools, strategies, and expectations leave elementary school prepared for secondary success. Students develop strong organizational skills, learn effective note-taking and study strategies, manage their time responsibly, and build a toolbox of academic habits that support long-term achievement. This experience has reinforced my belief that when students are taught how to learn, they are empowered to succeed well beyond the classroom.

Over the past twelve years as an instructional support teacher and instructional math coach, my commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement has deepened. In these roles, I have partnered with teachers to analyze data, implement research-based strategies, and design instruction that meets the needs of diverse learners. Coaching has given me the time and space to support, guide, and empower teachers as they grow in their practice. Whether supporting students or educators, my focus remains on growth, reflection, and shared responsibility for success.

At the heart of my philosophy is the belief that relationships drive learning. Students thrive when they feel safe, respected, and challenged, and teachers thrive when they feel supported, valued, and empowered. The greatest reward of teaching has been witnessing growth—students discovering their confidence and teachers strengthening their practice. My purpose is to ensure that every student and educator I serve leaves feeling capable, valued, and inspired to continue learning.

---

Principal's Recommendation

To the Teacher of the Year Selection Committee:

It is with great pride and wholehearted enthusiasm that I recommend Ms. Daniela Kerpens for Teacher of the Year at Thomas Elementary. As our Title I Instructional Coach, AVID Coordinator, and a key leader in our school community, Ms. Kerpens exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator as one who leads with knowledge, heart, and unwavering commitment to students and teachers alike.

Ms. Kerpens is an exceptional educator whose passion, leadership, and collaborative spirit have made a tremendous impact on our campus. As a vital instructional leader, she works closely with grade-level teams to coach, support, and guide teachers through purposeful PLCs. Her work is not compliance- driven; it is people-centered. Teachers consistently describe Daniela as solution-oriented, encouraging, and deeply knowledgeable as she is someone who listens first, then partners with them to move instruction forward in meaningful ways.

Beyond instruction, Ms. Kerpens plays a critical role in shaping our school culture. As the AVID Coordinator and the leader of Student Council, she is instrumental in developing the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally. Students respond to her immediately and deeply respect her because they know she is always there to support them. Her presence brings calm, clarity, and confidence to both students and staff.

What sets Daniela apart is not only her professional excellence, but her heart of service. She is tireless in her efforts, consistently going above and beyond without ever seeking recognition. She never says no when students or teachers need support. She is widely respected throughout the building for always doing what is right for kids and for teachers.

Our staff often refers to Daniela as a "rockstar educator," and that description is well earned. She loves what she does, and it shows in every interaction. She models positivity, resilience, and servant leadership daily, leaving a lasting imprint on our school community.

Ms. Kerpens is truly committed to the education of our entire school community, students, teachers, and families. She represents the values of Thomas Elementary with integrity and excellence, and I can think of no educator more deserving of this honor.

I am incredibly proud of Ms. Daniela Kerpens and give her my highest recommendation as Teacher of the Year for the 2025–2026 school year for this Plano Independent School District.

Sincerely,

Zack Pruett
Principal
Thomas Elementary School