At Maple Grove Middle School, students know they can count on one thing when they walk into Mrs. LeAnn Miller’s classroom — a warm smile, an encouraging word, and a teacher who truly believes in their ability to succeed. Mrs. Miller, who teaches seventh grade-math and sixth-grade world history, has built a reputation for creating a friendly, inviting classroom climate where every student feels valued, respected, and capable of learning deeply.
From the moment students enter her classroom, they’re met with an environment filled with positive energy and mutual respect. Her students describe her as “someone who really listens” and “makes learning fun and meaningful.” Mrs. Miller’s approach is rooted in connection, where she takes the time to understand each student’s needs and ensures that lessons go beyond surface understanding. Her goal is for students not only to know what they’re learning but also why it matters.
“LeAnn has such a gift for helping students feel confident in their own learning,” said Maple Grove Middle School Principal Nate Whitney. “She makes sure her classroom is a place where every student feels seen and supported. The way she combines academic rigor with genuine care makes her a model of effective teaching.”
That care doesn’t go unnoticed by students or parents. One parent recently shared, “It’s been amazing to see how much my daughter has progressed in math this year. She’s always struggled with the subject and never felt very confident in it. But now, she comes home excited to tell me what she’s learned in Mrs. Miller’s class. She says Mrs. Miller makes math make sense, and that she feels safe to ask questions and make mistakes. I can’t thank her enough for the difference she’s made.”
In addition to her work in the classroom, Mrs. Miller also serves as a new teacher mentor at Maple Grove Middle School. In this role, she supports several teachers who are in their first three years of teaching, guiding them through lesson planning, classroom management, and building meaningful relationships with students. Her calm leadership and practical wisdom have made her a trusted coach and colleague.
One fellow teacher shared, “LeAnn is always willing to help with whatever is asked.” That helpful spirit extends far beyond her own classroom. She is known for stepping in to support others, sharing ideas, and ensuring that everyone around her feels supported.
School counselor Brooke Ottesen added, “LeAnn is so hardworking and dedicated to her students. She has high expectations while creating a warm and safe place for students to learn. She is also a thoughtful and kind co-worker. We are grateful to have her at MGMS!”
“LeAnn is the kind of teacher other teachers look up to,” Principal Whitney said. “She shares ideas freely, models best practices, and genuinely wants others to succeed. She makes our whole school stronger.”
Whether she’s helping a nervous seventh grader master fractions or encouraging a new teacher to find their footing in the classroom, LeAnn Miller exemplifies what it means to be an educator who changes lives through kindness, patience, and passion.
Maple Grove Middle School is proud to recognize Mrs. Miller for her exceptional dedication to students and colleagues alike. Her influence reaches far beyond the walls of her classroom, shaping not only how students learn, but how they feel about learning itself.
