NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — This week's A+ Teacher has spent 15 years as an educator. Courtney Burkett works with students in every grade level at Marlowe Elementary School.

She has worked there for less than a year but has already made a huge impact.

“Because she’s committed to the work that’s before her and because our kids matter to her, and it shows every single day in what she does,” said Rayann Mitchell, the Principal at Marlowe Elementary.

Burkett is the Behavior and Academic Intervention Specialist at the school. She works with students one-on-one and in groups to create plans to help them be successful.

“If I can help somebody or help my fellow colleagues [with] figuring out what’s best for the student academically, then I’m all for it, and to be honest with you they just have always had my heart,” said Burkett.

Burkett is also an author. She has written two books and her third is coming out next month.

“That’s called “Down With Pens” and that’s about student empathy, teaching children how to have empathy towards adults, which is something that I feel is important," said Burkett.

Her books are based off of her experiences helping students with their behavior and academics. She loves teaching, and seeing their smiling faces and growth makes it all worthwhile.

“It reminds you to keep doing what you’re doing. This is meant for you. This career is the right career. And give it another 15 years,” said Burkett.