Brittney Graves
Position: Special Education Pre-K Inclusion Teacher
School: Clark Memorial School
School District: Franklin County School District
City, State: Winchester, TN
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Brittney Graves was nominated by her colleague, Janet Colburn.
Ms. Graves is more than an exceptional educator. She's a transformational leader, a source of unwavering positivity, and a passionate advocate for students, staff, and her entire school community. Her work extends far beyond the classroom, touching lives throughout the district and inspiring a culture of excellence, inclusion, and growth. She embodies the qualities of a true LifeChanger through her daily commitment to students and her outstanding leadership within her school and the broader educational community.
As an educator, Ms. Graves consistently sets high standards and leads with integrity, compassion, and vision. Her students thrive socially, emotionally, and academically under her instruction. She makes it a personal mission to see and support the whole child. Her classroom is a haven where every student feels valued, empowered, and inspired to achieve their full potential.
What distinguishes her most is her exceptional leadership. Within her school, she is a pillar of support and innovation. Whether mentoring new teachers or serving on critical committees, she demonstrates initiative, creativity, and a deep commitment to collaboration. She is the kind of leader who listens with intention, acts with purpose, and motivates others to be their best. Her ability to unite staff around shared goals and bring out the strengths in others is a hallmark of her leadership style.
At the district level, Ms. Graves has built a stellar reputation for excellence in professional performance. When you mention her name to any educator in the county, the response is always the same: "She is amazing. She is the best around. She changes the lives of her students daily!" She has been instrumental in driving forward initiatives that enhance equity, improve student outcomes, and support teacher development. Her work has not gone unnoticed. Colleagues across the district turn to her for insight, mentorship, and guidance. She leads by example and represents the highest standard of professional excellence and ethical responsibility.
"Ms. Graves doesn't just teach; she uplifts. She doesn't just lead; she transforms. The countless lives of students, families, and colleagues she has impacted are a testament to her purpose-driven career. Her record of achievement, combined with her unmatched passion for education, makes her the ideal candidate for this honor. In every sense of the word, she is a LifeChanger. It is an honor to know her," said Colburn.
"My grandson is level two autistic. Not only was Ms. Graves instrumental in shaping my grandson's future every day, but most importantly, she made him feel safe. This is not an easy task, even for relatives. She changed his life more than words can describe. She taught him to communicate, to love to learn, and to trust that there are people in this world who love and care about him. The smile on his face every time he sees her and the excitement he shows in itself prove Ms. Brittney is - and always will be - a LifeChanger! She eases our constant worry about leaving our sweet boy; we know he will always be loved and safe! Our prayers have been answered in the form of Ms. Brittney Graves," said Colburn.
Ms. Graves was featured in Good News Magazine. Check out the article here.
I can say that Ms. Brittney is truly one of the most amazing teachers I have ever met. And it all starts with her being just a truly genuine person. She has become an important person in all of my children’s lives, not just the two who have thankfully made it into her classroom. She makes the most of every small moment. She welcomes my daughter into her classroom, acknowledges my younger son who just has to show her or tell her something often she encourages him on his goals and gets him excited to start school next year, and checks in on my older son who has just moved out of her classroom continuing their little rituals and special moments that are so very important for him, all during morning drop off that takes less than 2 minutes. It’s truly amazing. Every time my children have an interaction with her, we all leave feeling warmth and joy. She sees my daughter as an individual but also accounts for her place in our family dynamic. She is my second child. My first was in her classroom last year and he is autistic. Ms. Brittney lets my daughter’s strengths shine and helps her understand herself and others.
A story that I tell anyone and everyone when talking about Ms. Brittney is that during my son’s first month of school, which was extremely stressful for me as he has not always been treated well or taken care of appropriately by people who were supposed to be helping him, I was dropping my son off when I noticed the child in front of us was having an extremely hard morning. Ms. Brittney took the extra time to comfort the child and help them into the classroom. As soon as she opened the door to help my son out of our car, she spoke so softly and directly telling him that his friend was having a hard time this morning and it would be very loud in the classroom. And that if he wanted some headphones, he could go to one of her assistants. After that moment I had no more worries. Ms. Brittney saw my son as a person and treated him with kindness and respect, taking the time to really prepare him for the situation he was walking in to and giving him the ability to make his own decisions to help him cope which is not always a given sadly. But more than that she sees his personality, his strengths, his light, his humor, his sass. In a world that isn’t always kind to those like my son, Ms. Brittney is the light that reminds us that they deserve just as much as neurotypical children. She is a true life changer in my family and I am so thankful for her. She has made a mark so profound not only on my son but on every person that he will come in contact with. She has helped to shape his life in ways I could not even imagine. And has given my daughter so much self confidence and a deeper understanding and acceptance of those who are different than her.
Brittany truly deserves this award!!! She is a very talented teacher!!!!
Brittney is a fabulous teacher in the way she integrates peer model students with students with disabilities. My granddaughter was one of her peer models and when her class came down the hallway at school, you didn’t know who had the disability or who was the peer model. She teaches life skills and acceptance of others to her class. I wish we could clone her and have her move up with her students. She has brought a valuable skill set to our school and to our students. She’s one of a kind.
Brittney is inspirational inside and out of the classroom. Couching with patience and grace.
I personally witnessed Ms. Brittney Graves changing lives for the best everyday while my daughter was enrolled as a peer model student in her peer modeling preschool program at Clark Memorial Elementary School! She lavished us with patience, understanding, and intellectual knowledge while her creativity and wholesomeness threaded us all together!
She has the capability and passion to teach and cater to the specific needs of students with mild to severe disabilities while simultaneously teaching to those without disabilities who are at grade level, all in one classroom.
The life skills my daughter learned with her special friends in Ms. Brittney’s classroom still shine through presently today at seven years old. Thank you, Ms. Brittney!
Ms. Graves brings such positive energy every day to her students. She has a talent to form bright connections with students and parents alike. Brittany has always been helpful to anyone in need and is an inspiration as a fellow educator.
I can't think of a more deserving teacher. Ms. Graves shows her teaching passion wherever she is!
There is no teacher more deserving of this nomination. She is a strong willed, kind, and inspiring individual. I'm honored to work alongside Brittney. We're so proud of her!
There is no one more deserving of this nomination than Brittney. I had the privilege of working alongside her during summer school, and she truly embodies what it means to be a life-changer. She is incredibly supportive, a strong advocate for her students, and consistently ensures they receive the quality education they deserve. Brittney is also a phenomenal team player who elevates everyone around her.
As a first-year principal, I have been deeply impressed by Brittney’s professionalism, knowledge, and heart for students. Her attention to detail paired with her deep understanding of student needs is exceptional. The strategies she uses to support our students are thoughtful, effective, and truly life-changing. Beyond her own classroom, her willingness to support and collaborate with colleagues speaks volumes about the educator and leader she is. I am genuinely in awe of the impact she has on students and our school as a whole. This nomination is so well deserved!!
Ms. Graves is an amazing teacher. I had the opportunity to watch her engage with the kids at the fall festival, and she was wonderful! Even though my oldest didn't have her as a pre-k teacher, she will be my first choice when my youngest starts school this year. We are thankful to have her in our district, and I always hear great things about her.
Brittney is an inspiration to her students and fellow teachers/ colleagues. She works very hard to make sure her students are given the best start possible.
Brittney is someone who truly makes an impact- she is trustworthy, hardworking, and consistently goes above and beyond for every single student in her classroom. I get to witness these qualities firsthand while working alongside her, but I’ve also experienced the impact of her dedication in the most personal way… as a parent. Seeing my own child grow, thrive, and succeed while in her classroom speaks great volumes about the care, patience, and intentionality she brings with her daily.
Her students are not just supported academically, but seen, valued, and loved. The success of her classroom is a direct reflection of her commitment and advocacy for her students! Thank you Ms. Brittney for all that you do!!
I am Ms. Brittney's special education supervisor, and I am likely unable to do justice to what a difference she makes in our students' lives. Ms. Brittney is an expert in early childhood education and inclusive efforts. She excels at creating an adaptive learning environment that meets the diverse developmental needs of students with significant developmental challenges, as well as their peer models. She seamlessly integrates individualized supports into the general education curriculum that she utilizes for all students. She fosters not only academic growth, but growth in adaptive, behavioral, communication, social/emotional, and motor skills. She has the rare gift of seeing all students' unique potentials, instead of their challenges. She has endless patience and ensures that every student, no matter their communication ability or learning style, feels deeply seen, heard, and valued. She uses verbal and nonverbal communication, including sign language, to make sure that all students gain their voice in the educational setting. Ms. Brittney does not just teach inclusion; she lives it, creating a space where belonging is a daily reality for everyone of her students. Franklin County and our Special Education Department are blessed to have her as an educator.
When my son was homebound from mid September to mid December Ms. Brittany was his homebound teacher and she was nothing short of amazing for him and to him.
She is a great wonderful teacher for my soon. Has the patience that is needed for his schooling I'm beyond grateful & thankful for everything she has done for my son! I would refer/recommend her without any doubt
It is a privilege to offer my strongest recommendation for this outstanding Pre-K educator for the Life Changer of the Year award. At the foundational level of our district’s mission, this teacher does far more than introduce academic basics; they cultivate a sense of wonder and belonging that sets the trajectory for a child’s entire educational journey. Through a unique blend of patience, innovation, and deep empathy, they transform the classroom into a launchpad where our youngest learners feel safe to take risks and grow. Their impact resonates well beyond the school walls, providing families with a partner in their child's development and ensuring that every student enters the primary grades with confidence and a genuine love for learning.
Ms. Graves is a phenomenal educator! She really gets to know her students and their different needs. She is very adaptable and will get to the bottom of any issue that might arise. She keeps her parents updated with frequent pictures and comments throughout the school day. She is a great advocate and will speak up and support all of her students and builds rapport quickly with the families she works with. Her energy is very engaging and infectious and she can easily turn a sticky situation around. Life Changer is a great description of who she is and what she does every single day. She is a great colleague and I love every opportunity I get to work with her.
Brittney is an amazing educator that goes above and beyond for not just her students, but the students in her school and district! Her compassion for education is amazing. We are blessed to have her as an educator in our school system!
As a mother, I can say without hesitation that Ms. Graves is far more than an exceptional teacher—she is a true LifeChanger. She is a transformational leader, a constant source of positivity, and a passionate advocate not only for her students, but for families, staff, and the entire school community. Her impact reaches well beyond the classroom, inspiring excellence, inclusion, and growth throughout the school and district.
Ms. Brittney is the very best!!
We were so fortunate to have Ms. Brittney as a teacher! She is such a gift to her students and their families. I recommend her to anyone I can!
I do not know Mrs. Graves as a teacher in a school setting. But in a gym setting where she is still tasked with being an educator, teacher, coach, role model, and life changer. I met her when I was 14 years old. For reference, I am now 30 years old. I was not as skilled as the other athletes and had a large gap in skill level when I first began. She always treated me like i was the best at whatever I did regardless of what I thought to be true. She believed in me all the time, especially when I didn't. She worked with me for hours individually to help me improve my skills always cheering me on and ALWAYS believing in me. She has a heart of gold and genuinely cares about every single child she has had the opportunity to work with. I love you Coach Brittney and THANK YOU for being as amazing as you are!
Miss Brittney is a wonderful teacher. She believes in you even when you don't believe in yourself. She sees everyones potential. She has a kind heart & is very patient. She is resilient and never gives up on anyone. She is a true blessing to this world & has made a difference in so many lives.
I cannot say enough great things about Ms Britney and her classroom! My son is thriving socially and physically in ways I didn’t think was possible. She’s truly living out her calling with these children and helping them feel capable and seen.
Ms. Brittney is one of the most caring and thoughtful people. She is genuine and truly cares about each of her students! We are so lucky to have her!!
Ms Brittany is awesome. My grandson loves going to school and being in her classroom. I heard him this weekend singing his ABC.
Ms. Brittney is one of a kind! My twins were in her class and she helped them (and us as parents) in ways I didn’t think possible. I really don’t know how she does it. I’ve seen her work tirelessly to make sure things are done right. I’ve seen her care for her students even when they are no longer in her class. We feel so lucky to have had her in our lives and if anyone deserves this award, it is her.
Ms. Brittney has been a life changer for my family and me. My son started in her class when he was three and was barely communicating. He is now in his second year in Ms. Brittney’s class and he has progressed beyond what I could have imagined for him! Ms. Brittney is very talented and dedicated.
My daughter has been a peer model in her class for two years. She has THRIVED. We were so worried since she hadn't never been in school/daycare before but ms Brittney has been the best thing for us.
Ms. Brittany is an amazing, kind, understanding teacher. She has been a tremendous help with our son this year and look forward to the rest of the school year with her class. My son has learned a lot academically as a peer model in her class room but also life and social skills with her guidance! Exceptionally talented teacher!
Ms. Brittany is the best teacher!
Always doing what best for the child and making sure they are comfortable and thriving. Such a great person in general. My daughter was non verbal and wasn’t doing much of anything, therapy wasn’t helping but since she has been going to Ms. Brittany, my baby is saying a lot of words, starting to say 3 words sentence and learning so much. She is thriving with the help of Ms.Brittany. I love how well she communicates and gives advice of what I can do or what not to do. Always thinking the best for the child. She deserves this!!
Ms. Brittney is exceptional teacher and amazing person. My son was blessed to have her for two years. Not only academic skills but she taught many life skills. She is big part of helping him grow into the student he is today.
Ms Brittney is a very caring and dedicated teacher. She literally puts her heart and soul into trying to reach each student on their individual learning levels. She makes sure she is up to date on all necessary curriculum to ensure she is ready for any situation that may occur. Clark Memorial is very lucky to have her as a teacher.
Ms. Brittney is a phenomenal educator! The care she pours into her students builds trust, confidence, and a lasting love of learning. I’m so grateful to work with someone whose compassion and dedication make such a meaningful impact on students.
Brittney is exceptional inside and outside of the classroom! The way she interacts with anyone is always the same! She a big bursting ball of energy who could light up any room! Super deserving of this award and all awards for all of the hard work and dedication she pours into her students! Congratulations and wishing you the best on achieving this prestigious award!
Ms. Brittney is an amazing teacher! My daughter was a peer model student in her class for two years, and learned so much! From writing her full name, and being able to do sign language with her full name!! (And many more words/phrases) I was very amazed! Not only did my daughter learn a lot academically she learned a lot of life skills, and how to treat everyone the same no matter what! Ms. Brittney deserves all the awards! She is patient, kind, and very good at her job!
Ms. Graves is such an outstanding person! She is such a positive person to be around and learn from. I haven’t met someone that has the same heart that she has, truly a gem.
Exceptional teacher with an even GREATER purpose! Brittney demonstrates a positive difference through each child that enters her classroom, giving every child the opportunity to be great.
Just wanted to say congratulations.
Very well deserved and earned! Congratulations Ms.Brittney! Continue to motivate and inspire our youth and peers!
Brittney goes above and beyond for her students. She has the most challenging position in the building working with three year old special needs students while incorporating nonchallenged peer models who are also learning. This means that her entire classroom is set up with accommodations to ensure the success of all students requiring her massive amount of work and commitment. She not only works hard in her classroom, but she also makes sure to attend the student's extracurricular activity fostering a positive teacher parent relationship. She is responsible for the testing and writing part of any IEP for all students who are just entering school and need and evaluation. She is integral part of our school who goes out of here way to ensure all students are successful, happy, and loved.
Brittney,
You are always a teacher to emmulate. Your patience and love are so wonderful to see each week. Your students come out of your class with a clear understanding of expectations and a love of learning.
Best wishes to you.
Congratulations to Ms. Graves!! She is an exceptional educator and we are thankful to have her at Clark Memorial Elementary. Ms. Graves always go above and beyond the call of duty for her students. Job well done!
As Brittney's assistant it is an honor and a privilege to be on the ground floor with her learning from her. She is one of those rare few in the Special Education world these days that went into Special Education because it was a passion and not just another thing added into her teaching license to get a bigger paycheck. She truly loves what she does. Brittney inspires myself and all of those around her to be better people by proving that it is not your level of education, a new certification, or a pay scale but the love of the students that makes an Educator. I cannot think of anyone more deserving to be called a Life Changer because she's been doing that since day one! It does not matter what ability the child has or what level they are Brittney loves and teaches them all with her incredible heart and powerful mind!
She is amazing! So happy she is at our school!
My grandson,who is level 2 autistic, has made such amazing progress with Ms. Brittney. He absolutely loves her and feels safe with her. You can see such a difference in him after working with her. Our entire family has nothing but love and respect for Ms Brittney. She is an amazing teacher.
Mrs. Brittany has been amazing with my granddaughter! I love how she is firm with her classroom management but so loving and caring . My granddaughter loves being in her classroom. We have noticed such a big and positive change in her learning!
