Navarro Independent School District

GERONIMO, TX – May 14, 2026 –  In a surprise celebration today, Navarro ISD leaders announced that Hannah Dreibrodt, a third-grade math and science teacher at Navarro Intermediate, has been selected as the 2025-26 District Teacher of the Year.

Ms. Dreibrodt’s selection highlights her unique ability to blend rigorous academic standards with deep social-emotional learning. While she is known as a math and science "powerhouse," her philosophy centers on the idea that students must first be positive, well-adjusted members of society to truly thrive.

"Ms. Dreibrodt works to deeply connect her students and their learning to their community and other subject areas," said Superintendent Dr. Mandy Epley. "Her focus on the whole child—valuing not only what students learn but also who they are becoming —is exactly what makes her an exceptional educator. She lives the Navarro ISD mission of building collaborative partnerships and cultivating the positive relationships that grow successful students and prepare them for their future." 

The selection committee—composed of district leadership, former Teachers of the Year, and a high school student representative in the Teaching & Training Program of Study—cited Ms. Dreibrodt’s multifaceted approach to education as a primary factor in her selection. She consistently brings math to life through "Whole Brain Teaching," utilizing hand motions and chants to make complex concepts kinesthetic and accessible.

"Hannah is a third-grade math and science powerhouse who isn’t afraid to have fun," noted Chief Academic Officer Wendy McMullen. "She believes that every child can succeed when given the right support, strategies, and encouragement, and she provides that through word problems that aren't obstacles, but puzzles to be 'unpacked’."

This dedication to creating a creative environment is evident in her frequent classroom transformations and her willingness to dress up as a pirate to spark student engagement. Beyond her own four walls, she serves as a leader for UIL Number Sense teams, organizes campus-wide STEAM Nights, and provides mentorship to her fellow educators. 

When asked what message she would share with her peers across the district, Ms. Dreibrodt emphasized the importance of perspective, "Pay attention to the small moments you experience in the classroom—those quiet wins are the reasons why we do this work.”

In recognition of her excellence, the Navarro Education Foundation (NEF) presented her with a $500 grant to further award her impactful work in the classroom. As the District Teacher of the Year, Ms. Dreibrodt will now advance to represent Navarro ISD at the regional level of the Texas Teacher of the Year program. The district celebrates her dedication and looks forward to her continued leadership in the 2026-27 school year.