Sisters in Sync: Teaching With Heart at McDougle

By Klein ISD Jasmine Nguyen

June 11^th, 2025

Klein, Texas— At McDougle Elementary, two fourth-grade teachers aren’t just colleagues—they’re sisters, partner teachers, and a shining example of what passionate, purpose-driven education looks like. Mrs. Anh Tran and Mrs. Lan Vy Turner have turned their shared roots and aligned teaching philosophies into a transformative experience for their students and school community.

Sisters in Sync: Teaching With Heart at McDougle

A Calling Rooted in Resilience

Mrs. Turner, a fourth-grade math and science teacher, brings purpose and heart to her eighth year in education. Raised in Houston by Vietnamese immigrant parents who sacrificed everything to secure opportunities for their children, Mrs. Turner internalized the power of education at a young age.

“Education wasn’t just a path to success—it was survival, voice, and empowerment,” Mrs. Turner said. “I want to be the teacher who sees potential in students who might not yet see it in themselves.”

Her sister and teaching partner, Mrs. Tran, who teaches fourth-grade ELAR, shares a similar foundation. Immigrating to the U.S. at just one year old, she found her life’s direction thanks to educators who believed in her. Today, she passes that belief forward in every lesson.

“Education shaped who I am,” Mrs. Tran said. “It gave me confidence, character, and a vision for the future. Now, I get to do that for others.”

A Journey of Shared Growth

The sisters’ teaching careers took off in a nearby school district, where they were both recognized in the same year—Mrs. Turner as Rookie Teacher of the Year and Mrs. Tran as Teacher of the Year. That honor foreshadowed their future as a powerful team.

Their collaboration flourished in the elementary school where they taught as fifth-grade partners for three years. Their synergy—built on trust, aligned values, and complementary strengths—quickly became a model of collaborative teaching.

They brought that same energy and excellence to Klein ISD. The decision to join McDougle Elementary was driven by the district’s deeply student-centered vision.

“Klein ISD’s commitment that every student ‘enters with a promise and exits with a purpose’ resonated with both of us,” Mrs. Turner said. “It reflects the kind of meaningful work we strive to do every day.”

Classrooms Fueled by Purpose and Positivity

In Mrs. Turner’s classroom, learning is hands-on, rigorous, and joyful. Guided math groups, student collaboration, and perseverance are the norm. She creates spaces where students aren’t afraid to take academic risks and where every child is seen, supported, and challenged.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Tran brings intentionality and critical thinking to her ELAR instruction. Her classroom buzzes with student dialogue, reflective thinking, and small-group exploration. She uses data-driven strategies to differentiate, challenge, and celebrate student growth.

Success, for both sisters, goes beyond test scores—it involves confidence, collaboration, and compassion.

Strength in Sisterhood

Their partnership is anchored not just in professional alignment but in a deep familial bond. They describe each other with admiration and pride—Mrs. Turner values Mrs. Tran’s calm, dependable leadership under pressure, and Mrs. Tran is inspired by her sister’s drive and unwavering belief in students.

“There’s something powerful about working with someone who truly understands you,” Mrs. Tran said. “It’s comforting, motivating, and makes our work stronger.”

One standout moment this year for Mrs. Tran was watching Mrs. Turner be recognized for Most Student Growth—a proud sisterly celebration and a testament to their collective commitment to students.

Teaching With Heart, Together

From shared victories to daily lesson planning, the Turner-Tran partnership is more than rare—it’s impactful. Their story is one of family, perseverance, and the transformative power of education.

“I can’t imagine doing anything else,” Mrs. Turner said. “This is where my skills, passion, and purpose come together.”

At McDougle Elementary, these two remarkable educators continue to build not just strong classrooms but a legacy of learning, love, and leadership that reflects the very best of our Klein ISD community.

Thank you to both Mrs. Tran and Mrs. Turner for their unwavering commitment to our McDougle Lions and the families they serve. Our Klein Family is so proud to have you both in Klein ISD.