Susan Berry: A Master Teacher Who Leads with Heart

For more than 30 years, Susan Berry has dedicated her career to helping students learn, grow, and discover what they are capable of achieving. This year, that dedication has earned her the honor of being named Dogwood Elementary’s Teacher of the Year.

A third-grade teacher and self-proclaimed bullfrog enthusiast—her classroom mascot is the bullfrog—Mrs. Berry brings a calm, steady presence to her classroom. She is a master teacher who leads with a firm but caring approach, creating an environment where students know what is expected of them and feel supported as they work toward those expectations.

"She has an incredible impact on her students," fellow third grade teacher Robin Snipes said. "Though her guidance, encouragement, and genuine connection, her students feel loved, confident, and proud of themselves and all they can accomplish."

Mrs. Berry teaches math and science, subjects she brings to life through hands-on, student-centered learning. She is always looking for creative ways to make learning memorable. When she wanted to celebrate her students’ hard work and participation in a school fundraiser, she turned the classroom into a campout, complete with blankets and flashlights, giving students the chance to learn under their desks while completing math and investigating magnets. For Mrs. Berry, learning can—and should—be fun.

Her impact extends well beyond her own classroom. As a Blue Chip mentor, Mrs. Berry supports teachers who are new to Dogwood, offering encouragement, guidance, and the benefit of her many years of experience.

"When it comes to being a team player, Susan is always there -- ready to support, uplift, encourage, and lend a helping hand, always with a smile that can light up a room," Snipes said. "She has a true gift for making everyone around her feel valued and supported."

Her willingness to give her time and talents also makes an impact on students outside her classroom. She supports Dogwood’s Got Talent, helping students overcome nerves and find the confidence to take the stage. She also works with the art teacher to make sure that Fine Arts Night is a success. 

“Mrs. Berry is widely respected and admired by students, parents, and colleagues for her enthusiasm, dedication, and genuine belief in every child,” said parent and colleague Alexa Guynes. “She willingly gives her time to Dogwood’s Got Talent, helping students overcome nerves and feel confident enough to shine.”

Those who work with Mrs. Berry often point to the same qualities: kindness, patience, high expectations, and a genuine belief in every child. Her classroom may be orderly and structured, but at its heart is a teacher who cares deeply about her students.

"Ms. Berry has such a genuine, kind, and beautiful heart," parent Kristen Buffolino said. "The way she pours herself into students, connects with them, engages them, and makes each one feel special is something they will carry with them long after they leave her classroom. She doesn't just teach them -- she makes them feel known and loved."

After more than three decades in education, Mrs. Berry continues to make a difference—not through grand gestures, but through the steady, everyday work of helping children and colleagues succeed. Her Teacher of the Year recognition celebrates not only what she does in her classroom, but the lasting impact she has throughout Dogwood Elementary.