Her Story
About Jannet
Jannet Butler is a reading specialist, literacy educator, curriculum development, and school leadership professional with extensive experience in reading instruction, lesson planning, reading comprehension, student support, and PreK-12 education. She currently serves as Reading Specialist with Newport News Public Schools. Her background is supported by graduate-level education in administration, curriculum development, supervision, and advanced leadership from Norfolk State University. She attributes her success to life experiences, her daughter, her daughter's father, her grandmother, and the people she surrounds herself with. These have shaped her journey from selective mutism to becoming an educator, author, and crafter. She values loyalty, consistency, and respect in her work and personal life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jannet
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to life experiences, my daughter, her father, my grandmother, and the people I surround myself with. These have shaped my journey from selective mutism to becoming an educator, author, and crafter.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received is to leave every door open and never burn bridges. My aunt told me to always listen because 95% of what you hear you may filter out but that 5% you may need later, so pay attention and keep it on the back burner.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Listen to their inner voice. Believe in themselves enough to move forward. I encourage young women to keep doors open, pursue what brings them joy, and not let others dictate their path.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The challenges are with parents and students because they want the best but don't always understand what educators are trying to do. It's about building communication without watering things down while lifting parents up and letting them know educators handle their field best.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Loyalty, consistency, and respect are most important. If you have loyalty you will have respect and consistency. I value people's time highly and always keep my word, calling if running late.
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