The Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts (TCTELA) is proud to announce Dr. Kelly Cox as the recipient of this year’s prestigious Dr. Roni Dean Burren Literacy Leader Award. Known for her tireless dedication to fostering a love of reading and her innovative approaches to literacy, Dr. Cox exemplifies the qualities of leadership, compassion, and advocacy that this award seeks to honor.

​

Dr. Cox’s passion for literacy is evident in every aspect of her work. With a deep foundation in literacy education from her experience at the elementary level, she has expanded her impact to inspire students and educators across all grade levels. Her ability to nurture a genuine love for reading among students of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities is a testament to her commitment to equity and inclusivity in education.

​

One of Dr. Cox’s most transformative projects involved organizing a book donation initiative for special needs students. Through her efforts, many self-contained students were able to check out books from the library for the first time, an empowering experience. This project highlights her dedication to ensuring that all students, regardless of their challenges, have access to the resources they need to thrive as readers.

​

In addition to her work with students, Dr. Cox has made a significant impact on educators by fostering a culture of collaboration and lifelong learning. She has facilitated book clubs for teachers, creating spaces for dialogue, idea-sharing, and professional growth. These efforts have strengthened the collective ability of her school community to support students on their literacy journeys.

​

Dr. Cox plays a crucial role in supporting both campus and district-wide literacy initiatives in her role as a Reading and Language Arts Administrator. Her motto, “All students need to be able to open a book and read it,” encapsulates her vision for a future where every student has the opportunity to unlock the joys and possibilities that literacy provides.

​

Dr. Cox’s leadership goes beyond her formal responsibilities. She has conducted free reading assessments for students and teachers, identifying strengths and areas for growth to provide targeted interventions and support. Her hands-on approach and unwavering dedication to literacy exemplify her commitment to making a lasting impact on every individual she works with.

​

Through her innovative strategies, compassionate leadership, and unrelenting passion, Dr. Kelly Cox has transformed countless lives and inspired a culture of literacy in her community. Her recognition with the Dr. Roni Dean Burren Literacy Leader Award is a well-deserved honor that celebrates her extraordinary contributions to education.

​

TCTELA congratulates Dr. Kelly Cox on this remarkable achievement and thanks her for her vision, determination, and steadfast commitment to a literate future for all students.