Teacher Feature: Leah Plagens, Frank Elementary

They say when it’s right, you’ll know. And Frank Elementary 1st-grade teacher Leah Plagens knows—teaching was the right choice for her.

“I have wanted to be a teacher ever since I can remember. I had such close relationships with my elementary school teachers growing up,” Ms. Plagens said. “I felt tremendous support, love, and care daily. As I grew, I wanted to help others feel the same value and worth.”

For Ms. Plagens, the classroom is more than just a place for students to come in and learn.

“We form a collaborative team within our classroom,” Ms. Plagens said. “It’s okay to make mistakes and be silly while we work hard and try our best.”

As an elementary school teacher, engagement is a high priority for Ms. Plagens. Getting her students fully involved in the learning process is something that she strives for daily.

“I love to teach using various fun strategies to bring connections to learning,” Ms. Plagens said. “We move a lot, work together, and have a lot of fun while we learn by playing games and talking to each other.”

Ms. Plagens has been an elementary teacher for over a decade, and she still lights up when she sees her students get captivated by their lessons.

“I love watching their true joy when they finally master and apply a skill on their own,” Ms. Plagen said. “I love completing an activity and overhearing a student tell their friend, ‘This is the best day of my life!’” 

If you spend any amount of time in Ms. Plagen’s classroom, it is evident that she teaches from her heart. 

“I love having the opportunity to turn a child’s day around from the second they enter the classroom with a simple hug and an ‘I’m glad you’re here today,’” Ms. Plagens said. “Every year, I look forward to the memories that will be made and, most importantly, the opportunity to provide each child with the same feelings of support, love, and care that my teachers gave me.”

Ms. Plagens, thank you for everything you do for every student you encounter. It is teachers like you who help make Klein ISD great!