Remy McLaughlin, a kindergarten teacher and team lead at A.V. Cato Elementary has been named Castleberry ISD’s 2025 Elementary Teacher of the Year. With five years of experience in education—including prior service as a special education teacher in the district—McLaughlin brings a unique blend of creativity, structure, and heart to her classroom. As Castleberry ISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year, she will advance to the regional level, where one elementary teacher in Region XI will be selected as the Region XI Elementary Teacher of the Year.
In her classroom, learning is rooted in intentional routines, high expectations, and a culture of emotional safety. McLaughlin believes children thrive when they are seen, heard, and empowered—and her approach reflects that belief daily. Through engaging content, consistent systems, and a strong sense of community, she fosters both academic and personal growth.
One example of her creative approach is “Space Station Cato,” an immersive science unit in which her students explored concepts of space, engineering, and teamwork through hands-on discovery. By infusing joy, imagination, and real-world application into her lessons, McLaughlin helps students build deep connections with their learning—and with one another.
“I want every student who walks into my room to know they are important, capable and loved,” McLaughlin says. “When students feel safe and valued, they’re more willing to take risks, explore ideas and grow in ways that go beyond academics.”
Her classroom culture is not the result of theme days or occasional projects—it’s built through consistent planning, care, and intention. McLaughlin designs learning experiences that are inclusive and differentiated, ensuring that each student can access content in ways that feel personal and empowering. Her background in special education informs this approach, allowing her to meet a wide range of needs with flexibility and compassion.
As team lead, McLaughlin extends that same intentionality to her colleagues—supporting campus-wide planning, mentoring peers, and helping shape a positive school culture. Her leadership is marked by collaboration and a passion for elevating student voice.
Remy McLaughlin’s work reminds us that kindergarten is more than the beginning of school—it’s the foundation of a child’s identity as a learner. And at A.V. Cato Elementary, that foundation is strong, thanks to a teacher who shows up each day with vision, joy, and an unshakable belief in her students.