“Every child deserves the chance to shine”
In two years at DIS, Deanne Byron has taken students all the way to the Coca-Cola Arena stage. In 2026, the Performing Arts and Inclusion Teacher became one of the first two staff to receive the school’s Exceptional Teacher Award. She shares what drives her work…
When Deanne Byron’s students performed at the Coca-Cola Arena, it captured what she cares about most: giving every child the chance to be seen. In 2026, after two years at DIS, the Performing Arts and Inclusion Teacher was named one of two staff to receive the school’s first Exceptional Teacher Award. Here, she shares her thoughts in her own words.
You’ve been at DIS for two years. What made you stay?
What has made me stay is the strong sense of community and the relationships I have built with both students and colleagues. DIS is a school where staff are encouraged to be creative, take risks in their teaching, and continually develop professionally. I have felt supported from day one, and it is incredibly rewarding to work in an environment where student wellbeing and achievement are valued equally.
This is the first year Al-Futtaim Education Foundation has given these awards, and you’re one of only two teachers chosen from DIS. What do you think it was about your teaching that put you on this list?
As both a Performing Arts and an Inclusion Teacher, I believe my focus has always been on ensuring that every child can access learning and experience success in their own way. I work hard to build strong relationships with students, understand their individual strengths and needs, and create opportunities for them to develop confidence and independence. Alongside this, I have been fortunate to provide students with exciting opportunities that broaden their experiences and allow them to showcase their talents, including performing at the Coca-Cola Arena. I believe every child deserves the chance to shine, regardless of their starting point, and I strive to create opportunities that help them discover what they are capable of achieving. I am passionate about advocating for children and helping them overcome barriers to learning. If my teaching has been recognised, I hope it is because of the positive impact this has had on the students and families I work with.
Now that someone has officially called you exceptional, what’s the bar you’re setting for yourself next year?
Receiving this award is incredibly special, but I see it as motivation to keep growing. Next year, I want to continue developing inclusive practices that help every child thrive while creating even more opportunities for students to challenge themselves, build confidence and make lasting memories. Whether that’s through performances, leadership opportunities or experiences beyond the classroom, my goal is to ensure that every child feels seen, valued and inspired to achieve more than they thought possible.