Just a few short years after graduating from the UH College of Education, Joann Phan has been named Teacher of the Year at DeChaumes Elementary.

Phan knew from the beginning that in order to become a great teacher she needed to attend the College of Education. “The University of Houston has one of the best teacher education programs nation-wide. I knew that graduating from UH COE would guarantee me with the skills needed to be successful in any classroom,” says Phan.

Phan credits her teachers, including Eleanor Tyson, professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction for giving her insights beyond those found in textbooks. “One of my professors at COE said something that I will never forget,” says Phan. “She said, ‘Children do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.’ It is very true especially for students who come from a disadvantaged background and need that trust to be built in a relationship.” At the start of every year, Phan ensures that she gets to know her students before jumping into the curriculum.

“Joann sets the tone for newer teachers,” says colleague Grace Jung. “She tackles problems before they even become an issue, she plans ahead, and is a great leader. She is not only a great teacher and mentor, but also someone I am proud to call my friend.”

Above all, Phan’s students are her priority. When asked for advice to give to future teachers, she says, “Remember your mission as a teacher. Sometimes we get caught up in the paperwork, complaints, and the pressure of it all that it is easy to forget why we get into the profession in the first place.”