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NEDERLAND — Allison Britten is more than an eighth grade math teacher.

Her approach encompasses the students’ educational needs and their emotional needs.

Principal Tina Oliver said she appreciates how Britten interacts with the students, such as asking how they’re feeling each day.

Oliver sees how Britten tries to help students and, if she can’t, she knows when it’s time to reach out to other people to help.

“She’s truly an educator inside and out, as far as not only math but life lessons,” Oliver said.

Britten believes the support outside the classroom is just as important as what she does in the classroom.

Britten was recognized Friday as Teacher of the Month, sponsored by Philpott Motors and The Port Arthur News.

The honor comes with a $500 gift card and puts Britten in the running for Teacher of the Year, which is awarded in December and comes with a $1,000 gift card.

Britten was in a classroom where students were watching a movie as a reward when Oliver, Nederland Independent School District Assistant Superintendent Bill Jardell, NISD Communications Manager Mandy Clayton, along with Bob Thewman of Philpott and Candace Hemelt with The Port Arthur News, entered with the surprise news.

Britten, who has been an educator for 13 years, the last five with Nederland, said it is humbling to be recognized.

Teachers, she said, had the biggest impact on her life, which is why she chose this as a career.

She feels she’s making an impact on her students.

“You can’t reach every one of them, you just do your best,” Britten said. “If I could reach just one of them that’s awesome.”

Nederland is home, she said, while standing in the hallway of the school she once attended.

Britten was also named teacher of the year for 2023-2024 for C.O. Wilson Middle School.