DECK: As we celebrate both Teacher Appreciation Week and Mother's Day this month, we honor the remarkable women who serve dual roles in nurturing the next generation. These dedicated educators go beyond teaching curriculum—they build confidence, inspire creativity, and create a foundation for lifelong learning.

In Flower Mound and surrounding areas, families have nominated extraordinary female teachers whose impact extends far beyond classroom walls. Their stories reveal a common thread: a genuine commitment to meeting each child where they are while balancing their own family responsibilities.

Anne Davis stands out as our Teacher of the Year, receiving multiple nominations that highlight her exceptional work as a Language Science Teacher and Dyslexia Intervention Specialist at Bridlewood Elementary.

Parents describe how Mrs. Davis transforms the challenging journey of dyslexia into a path of success. Her personalized approach helps students master spelling rules, cursive writing, reading fluency, and comprehension through creative strategies that empower children to thrive despite learning differences.

"Mrs. Davis has guided both of our children, along with countless others, in becoming successful students and excelling despite their dyslexia diagnosis," shares one parent. Another notes how Anne's dedication shined especially bright during virtual learning, when she would "drop off worksheets on our porch and even bring stickers to both kids."

Her impact is lasting—former students who worked with Mrs. Davis have gone on to excel in honors classes, a testament to her effectiveness and dedication.

Kimberly Sullivan serves as a special education counselor/teacher at Winfree Academy Lewisville. Her husband praises her 14-year teaching career and the lasting connections she maintains with students. Having previously taught at Bridlewood Elementary for two years, neighborhood children still approach her for hugs, demonstrating her profound impact on young lives.

Jessica Bertolio applies her expertise as a Computer Science teacher at Bridlewood STEM Academy, teaching K-5th grade students about robotics, programming, and digital design. Her husband describes her as "the go-to person for everything" while noting she balances her professional dedication with raising her own children, two of whom also attend Bridlewood Elementary.

Ashley Rieff, a 3rd grade teacher at Bridlewood Elementary, creates a comfortable learning environment through humor, helping students thrive while reaching their full potential. As organizer of the school's Lego club and mother of three Bridlewood students herself, she incorporates creative classroom games that help children better retain information.

Carol Waldroup, a 1st grade teacher at Bridlewood Elementary, excels at meeting children where they are and supporting their individual learning styles. Parents shared touching stories about how she helped new students integrate into the school, with one child continuing to visit Mrs. Waldroup each morning for a welcoming hug even after moving to second grade.

Laurel Grabe, an Elementary SPED Teacher at Bridlewood Elementary, maintains children's spirits while empowering them to use their "superpowers" throughout the school year. A parent describes her classroom as having "peaceful music, projector for drawing, movement and creativity stations," noting "she has a tool for the toolbox to fit almost any need!"

Savannah Munoz, a 3rd grade teacher at Bridlewood Elementary, brings a positive attitude that gives students confidence. A parent who served as her Room Mom recalls surprising Mrs. Munoz with a half-birthday celebration, noting her gentle teaching approach and willingness to provide additional support when needed.

PULL QUOTE: "These women don't just educate—they nurture, inspire, and transform lives, one student at a time."