English teacher Katrina Mabry-Smith was selected as the school’s Teacher of the Year.

“Being nominated was an honor, but being chosen was more than I could have hoped for,” she said.

Even though she has been teaching nine years, this is her first in MISD.

“She teaches on a personal level,” sophomore Chris Hampton said. “She genuinely cares about everyone and will do anything in her jurisdiction to help you.”

Her current schedule includes English I and II.

“Interacting with them every day is what I enjoy the most,” Mabry-Smith said. “Seeing the light bulb come on and their eyes light up when they understand a concept is the most exciting part.”

Working with teenagers is what Mabry-Smith said she enjoys the most.

“I love people, especially young people,” she said. “Teaching allows me to share something meaningful that can impact someone’s life for years to come.”

She is considering entering a doctoral program.

Mabry-Smith said, “I love what I do, so I want to be the best I can be at it.”