Britini D'Angelo: A Hero of the Classroom at Niagara Falls

Britini D'Angelo: A Celebrated Educator

In an inspiring recognition of teaching excellence, Britini D'Angelo from Henry J. Kalfas Elementary School in Niagara Falls has emerged as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2026 Kleenex® Heroes of the Classroom Contest. This program, presented in partnership with Campus Multimedia, celebrates educators who are making significant, positive impacts in their students’ lives.

D'Angelo's journey began as one of ten national finalists, chosen from thousands of nominations. Her dedication to education has not only earned her a $10,000 cash prize but has also brought $5,000 and a year’s supply of Kleenex® Brand tissues to her school. Furthermore, her nominator, Cathy D'Angelo, is rewarded with a $1,000 Costco Shop Card for her role in highlighting Britini's inspiring work.

A Personal Mission

D'Angelo teaches a specialized first-grade classroom, and her ethos is firmly rooted in the belief that the word “can’t” should not exist. Diagnosed with autism at the tender age of 22 months, she merges her personal experiences with her professional expertise. This unique perspective allows her to relate to her students on a deeper level, serving as a living testament that disabilities do not impose limitations but rather offer new ways of understanding and learning.

"Teaching isn’t just a job for me; it’s deeply personal," Britini shares. "I understand what it feels like to need someone who believes in you. That's how I aim to support my students—by being there for them even before they believe in themselves. I won't give up on them, no matter the challenges we face together. Each achievement, no matter how small, reinforces my commitment to their success."

Beyond the Classroom

Britini's advocacy transcends the classroom walls; she invests countless hours in the evenings crafting personalized visual schedules and intervention tools for her students. She champions their needs during the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), reinforcing the understanding that diverse ways of thinking and learning are part of human variation rather than deficits. Her commitment shines brightly as she continually seeks innovative strategies to meet each student’s unique needs.

Cathy D'Angelo, who nominated her daughter, emphasizes Britini’s unwavering focus on her students: "She’s constantly researching effective techniques and creating tailored materials for any child who struggles to keep up. To watch Britini grow into this role has been one of my greatest joys. She embodies the role of educator, advocate, and inspiring role model beautifully."

A Legacy in the Making

The Kleenex® Heroes of the Classroom program operates on the noble quest to honor those educators who take strides to mold future generations positively. D'Angelo's exemplary work epitomizes the spirit of this initiative, and as she continues to advocate fiercely for her students, she inspires others in the educational field to follow suit.

To find out more about Britini D'Angelo and her incredible journey, you can visit HeroesoftheClassroom.com. The commitment shown by educators like her highlights the importance of supportive teaching environments where every child can thrive. This recognition is not just a personal honor for D'Angelo but a public celebration of teachers everywhere who tirelessly work to ensure every student achieves their potential.