Anna ISD Celebrates Top District Readers Through Amira Learning

by: Mindi Vandagriff, Coordinator of Professional and Digital Learning

Anna ISD is thrilled to recognize five exceptional elementary students who have been named the Top Readers in the District through Amira Learning, a cutting-edge AI-powered reading tutor that has transformed literacy instruction in our classrooms. These students have demonstrated outstanding dedication, growth, and a passion for reading throughout the school year.

Congratulations to our Top Amira Readers:

• Jamie S., 4th Grade – Harlow Elementary (Teachers: Leslie Nyitrai, Amye Dooley, Megan Bruno)

• Aaliyah G., 2nd Grade – Bryant Elementary (Teacher: Christine Hamilton)

• Dariel G., Kindergarten – Rosamond-Sherley Elementary (Teacher: Krystal Gonzalez)

• Jacobo M., Kindergarten – Rosamond-Sherley Elementary (Teacher: Krystal Gonzalez)

• Luca S., Kindergarten – Rosamond-Sherley Elementary (Teacher: Rosa Mori)

Throughout the year, students across Anna ISD have been using Amira, an AI-powered reading tutor that listens to students read aloud and provides immediate feedback on fluency, accuracy, and expression. Amira then tailors follow-up activities and practice sessions based on each student’s individual needs, allowing for truly personalized literacy instruction.

“Amira is a great example of how instructional technology can enhance the learning experience without replacing the teacher,” said Mindi Vandagriff, Coordinator of Professional and Digital Learning. “By using AI in a meaningful way, we’re giving teachers more time to focus on instruction while students receive real-time, individualized feedback that supports their growth.”

Amira's built-in assessments and real-time analytics help teachers make data-informed decisions that support each reader’s journey. Many educators have integrated Amira into small group rotations, reading stations, and independent practice time, giving students more opportunities to strengthen their reading foundations.

“Amira supports what our teachers do best—teach reading,” said Karen Caveny, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. “It reinforces foundational literacy skills and provides additional practice and scaffolding in a way that complements our district’s literacy framework. It’s exciting to see students becoming more confident readers as a result.”

The success of Amira in Anna ISD also speaks to a strong partnership with the team behind the platform.

“Anna ISD is a model district when it comes to using Amira to its full potential,” said Sarah Cude, Partnership Manager at Amira Learning. “Their teachers are thoughtful and strategic in their approach, and the district’s support of innovation is clear in the results we’re seeing from students.”

As the school year comes to a close, we celebrate the achievements of these top readers and recognize all of our students and educators who have embraced Amira with enthusiasm and heart. The future of reading in Anna ISD is brighter than ever!