Hempstead High School

In the spring of 2024 Kristen Payne, Hempstead High School English teacher, was named both the campus and district’s Secondary Teacher of the Year. With ten years of teaching experience, Payne has become an example of how to make a positive impact in the classroom. Dedicated to the growth and development of her students, her passion for literature and her belief in the transformative power of education has left a lasting impact on both her students and colleagues.

Payne began her career at Cypress Springs High School before moving to Waller High School and is now entering her second year at Hempstead High School. Through these years, she has developed a teaching style that encourages deep understanding and self-expression through literature.

For Payne, the journey to becoming a teacher was a natural progression, rooted in her childhood experiences. 

"My mother was a teacher, and I spent my formative years observing the hard work and heart that goes into being an educator," she explained. 

Surrounded by strong, intellectual women, Payne admired their tenacity and character. Though she had not initially set out to be a teacher, her knack for literary analysis and helping others understand complex ideas led her down the path of education. 

"I realized that literature, at its core, is about humanity in all its forms—light and dark, strength and frailty, excellence and ugliness." 

One of the hallmarks of Ms. Payne’s teaching is her ability to keep students motivated and engaged. Her approach involves creating a dynamic classroom setting where students are challenged but supported. 

"I try to frame all of our readings as skills that will help them develop as readers, writers, thinkers, and good people," she said.

From offering a variety of readings across different cultures and subject matters to implementing a range of engaging activities, she strives to make learning both rigorous and interesting. By incorporating individual, group, and partner work, as well as creative assignments, she ensures that her students are always thinking critically and pushing themselves to improve.

While reflecting on her career, Payne shared that the most rewarding moments are often the simplest interactions. 

"There are so many memorable moments across my career in education. Students’ college acceptances, students’ career choices, students finally passing that dang STAAR exam," she laughed. 

Yet, the small victories when students express a newfound love for reading or trust her with personal reflections is what makes teaching truly fulfilling for her. Payne’s impact on her students and the school community is undeniable. 

"Showing up each day to school with high expectations lets the students know that I care and that I believe in them.” 

Whether in the classroom or attending community events, she believes that building strong relationships with students is key to fostering growth, and her investment in both her students and the Hempstead community has helped her build those connections.

Like many educators, Payne has faced challenges along the way. One of the most significant has been helping students who struggle with reading and writing. 

"Many have not been successful in the past, and sometimes they are resistant to being vulnerable about where they are and being challenged to grow," she explained. 

By asking for help and constantly seeking new ways to engage students, Payne has adapted to ensure that every student believes in their ability to improve.

"If they believe in the process and believe that they can improve, they will see growth," she said.

Being named District Teacher of the Year was an unexpected honor for Payne. The recognition serves as validation of her hard work and dedication. 

"People outside of this profession have no idea the work it takes to build great lessons, deliver the lessons in a meaningful way, assess the skills that should have been learned, and then do it all over again!" she added. 

For her, the award is a reminder that she is on the right track and making a difference in the lives of her students.

For educators who are just starting their teaching careers, Payne offers valuable advice.

"Never stop learning and don’t be afraid to take risks!" 

She encourages new teachers to try new activities and lessons, even if they don’t go perfectly the first time. 

"We are human, and it’s ok for students to see you as such," she emphasized. 

She also stresses the importance of asking for help and learning from peers, administrators, and instructional specialists. 

"In education, asking these types of questions keeps you learning, curious, and engaged.” 

Building strong professional relationships is crucial for success, and she believes that a supportive school community is essential for both personal and professional growth.

Payne’s dedication to her students, passion for literature, and commitment to education have earned her the well-deserved title of Teacher of the Year. Her work is a testament to the impact a teacher can have not only on individual students but on an entire school community.