Hannah Leitt
Elliott Elementary
4th Grade Teacher
From Hannah's 4th grade team members:
When we read those definitions, we realized that they describe what “hope” is, too. This is Hannah. She inspires our students, families, and staff. She has, gives, and leads with hope. Hannah’s words, actions, and attitude make Elliott a better place for all of those lucky enough to walk through the doors of 225 South 25th Street.
Hannah embodies the best of the Elliott way and the Elliott spirit. The care, passion, and love she has for Elliott and its people shine bright. She is a strong, talented teacher, and our students and their growth and success is at the heart of all she does. Hannah raises the bar and makes those around her better.
At one of our Literacy Foundations classes in the fall, one of the sessions was on the Expectations vs. Relationships quadrant that describes teaching styles (Judith Kleinfeld, 1975). When we read about “warm demanders” (teachers who balance high expectations with deep care and respect for students), we looked at each other and said, “Hannah.” Since then, we joke that we want to be like Hannah when we grow up. But really, we’re only partially joking.
In all seriousness, we know we are beyond lucky to have the opportunity to work with, grow with, and learn from Hannah. We could not ask for a better teammate - and friend. Hannah warmly welcomed us - teachers with only Kindergarten and First Grade teaching experiences - to the wonderful worlds of Elliott and Fourth Grade.
She selflessly shares her knowledge, expertise, experiences, and suggestions with us in a way that empowers us to be the best teachers we can be. Hannah has a collaborative mindset and listens to us, our ideas, thoughts, and questions without judgement. She celebrates our students’ successes and growth - and our own - and helps guide us when we face challenges. Our year has been better than we ever could have even imagined because of Hannah’s calm, steady presence, and her care, support, encouragement, compassion, knowledge, leadership, inspiration, and hope.
Thank you for considering Hannah for this year’s Elliott Inspire Award. We think the world of her and would love nothing more than for her to be recognized for the phenomenal work she does, the positive impact she makes, and the remarkable person she is.
