MEET THE 2026 KLEENEX® HEROES OF THE CLASSROOM
Grand Prize Winner
Britini D'Angelo
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Henry J. Kalfas Elementary
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Britini D'Angelo - Henry J. Kalfas Elementary -
Congratulations to our 2026 Hero of the Classroom!
Kleenex® is giving back to schools and recognizing teachers for their life-changing impact!
In a nationwide competition with over $50k in total prizes, teachers were nominated by staff, parents, and former students as Kleenex searched for deserving teachers to reward - and one to celebrate as the grand prize winner.
Coming soon: An exclusive video feature celebrating Britini’s extraordinary journey, inspiring story, and the incredible impact she’s making in the classroom.
Strong. Impactful. Worth Celebrating.
Meet Britini D’Angelo
As a young child diagnosed with autism, Britini D’Angelo was told she might never speak. Today, she uses that very voice to empower students, advocate for inclusion, and inspire millions. Now a special education teacher, Britini has turned her own experiences into a powerful purpose: ensuring every child knows they are capable, valued, and worthy of success. A source of light and joy, she fills her classroom with love, encouragement, and an unwavering belief in her students’ potential.
Beyond the classroom, Britini champions autism acceptance, helping families and educators better support children with disabilities. Her story is a remarkable full-circle journey—from a child whose potential was underestimated to an educator helping countless children realize their own. She is living proof of the power of someone believing in you, and now she gives that same gift to her students every day.
“Britini doesn't simply teach academics, she helps build confidence, resilience, and self-worth that her students will carry with them for the rest of their lives.”
- Catherine Touma-D’Angelo, School Counselor
Making News.
Changing Lives.
Check out the news spotlights of the 2026 Heroes of the Classroom contest.
All media and press can reach out using the information below :
For Kleenex/Campus Multimedia:
FINN Partners
CampusMultimedia@finnpartners.com
For Niagara Falls City Schools:
Julie A. Doerr
Director of Community Relations
jdoerr@nfschools.net
Congratulations to all Heroes of the Classroom Finalists!
Thank you to every teacher for the role you play in students’ lives and a big applause to all of our finalists who earned this honor out of all the nominations across the country! Kleenex celebrates your strength and impact.
Precious Allen
Betty Shabazz Academy, IL
Tiffany Chau-Ta
Encinita Elementary, CA
Jose Chavez
James Monroe High, CA
Britini D’Angelo
Henry J Kalfas Elementary, NY
Mandy Fulton
Ridgeview High, OR
Bill Perks
Marathon Central School, NY
Fernando Puentes
Princeton High, TX
Beverly Rusoff
Bala Cynwyd Middle, PA
Stephanie Walton
Wilchester Elementary, TX
Denise Wilson
Winchester Elementary, TN