
U Teach Spotlight
Ms. Brigitte Ramirez
The Teacher Behind the Viral Student Hygiene Drawer
Ms. Brigitte Ramirez is an 11th grade U.S. History teacher, storyteller, and creator who's redefining what it means to support students — inside and outside the classroom. Through calming ASMR classroom moments, creative expression, and a viral hygiene initiative, she's helping students show up feeling confident, cared for, and ready to learn. Follow her journey @teachwithmx.ram
How One Classroom Drawer Is Changing Students' Lives
What started as a simple idea — providing everyday essentials like deodorant, toothbrushes, and hygiene products — has grown into a movement seen by millions. Ms. Ramirez's student hygiene drawer is a reminder that small acts of care can remove barriers, build confidence, and create a true sense of belonging.
The Interview
Tell us a little about yourself and your journey as an educator.
I'm in my 6th year of teaching, and I currently teach 11th grade U.S. History as well as UT-Austin OnRamps U.S. History. What pulled me into the classroom was my deep love of history — specifically the stories that don't always make the headlines.
I'm passionate about the people who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to fight for equality and rights, the ones history books often overlook. I believe every student deserves to see themselves in history, and I want to bring those untold stories to life in my classroom.
How would you describe your classroom vibe in 3 words?
Your content is so satisfying (we love the ASMR + lettering!) — what inspired you to start creating?
Creating content honestly started from my own love of watching ASMR videos. I was so drawn in by them that I eventually thought, why not try it myself? And I quickly discovered that creating them is even more fun than watching!
I love taking my audience along for the everyday moments — getting ready in the morning, setting up my classroom, cleaning and organizing — because those are the real, authentic parts of teacher life. Writing and lettering (especially calligraphy!) ASMR was never really the plan; I've always been a doodler, so that side of my content is completely organic. I think people connect with it because it's genuinely just… me.
We LOVE your student hygiene drawer — what inspired you to create it, and how has it impacted your students?
The hygiene drawer was born from two things: the data and the personal. Studies show that a significant number of students miss school simply because they lack access to basic hygiene products and school supplies. But what really pushed me to act was someone very close to my personal life who stopped going to school for that exact reason.
When I became a teacher, I made a promise to myself that if my students had enough going on in their lives, the least I could do was make sure that accessing a pad, some deodorant, a toothbrush, or school supplies was never a barrier to them showing up. My students know they can access them freely, without embarrassment or fear of judgment.
The response has been overwhelming in the best way. My TikTok community has helped me keep the drawers stocked, and brands like Dude Wipes, Rael, August, Hairitage by Mindy, Clorox, and others have generously donated as well. Because of that support, I've even been able to give products away to other schools and communities in need. It started in my classroom, but it's grown into something so much bigger.
What's your go-to must-have in your teacher bag or on your desk?
A variety of stationery for grading, my planner, MacBook, Alani Nu, Excedrin, a small snack, and anything that has to do with organization!
As an ASMR queen, what makes the perfect dry erase marker moment for you — smooth ink, bold color, or that clean erase?
Oh, this is easy! For me, the perfect dry erase marker moment is all about a thick chisel tip and a marker that is EXTRA juicy — smooth, bold, and satisfying from the first stroke to the last. There's nothing quite like a clean, crisp line gliding across the board.
What's one U Brands product you can't live without (or are currently loving)?
Narrowing down this answer was genuinely stressful because I love EVERYTHING U Brands makes — but here are some of my must-haves:
Dry erase boards: the variety of layouts and templates are so cute AND practical, they're a non-negotiable for my classroom.
Writing tools: I'm currently obsessing over the Pastel Bright Catalina felt tip pens and the fine liner felt tip pens. Both are absolutely perfect for grading and making my daily planner look colorful and like a work of art.
Chisel tip dry erase markers (single and double-sided) — bold, bright, and deliver the perfect thick, juicy line every single time. Plus all of the organizational items — U Brands just gets it!
What advice would you give to new teachers or creators just starting out?
For new teachers: Start every day brand new. We have no idea what our students are carrying outside of our classroom, and sometimes that spills into the school day in ways that aren't personal. If a student has a rough moment, give them grace and let the next day be a fresh start. That simple practice does wonders for classroom culture and makes students feel safe enough to keep showing up, both physically and emotionally.
For new creators: Consistency and genuineness are everything. Your audience will see right through you if you're not being real, and that trust is incredibly hard to rebuild once it's gone. Be very selective about what and who you promote — your followers are spending their hard-earned money based on your recommendations. Stay consistent, stay true to yourself, and only share things you genuinely love. That authenticity is your greatest asset.
What does "community" mean to you as an educator?
Community, to me, is truly a village. It's my students, their families, my fellow teachers, and everyone who plays a role in a child's journey — because no one person can do this job alone. Inside my classroom specifically, the community feels like a team all working towards the same goal: growth and success. We show up for each other. Every student has a role in making the classroom what it is.
Bonus: What's something your students would say about you that would make you smile?
I asked my students to describe me and here are a few of their responses: bubbly, energetic, expressive, compassionate, millennial, considerate, quirky, and "famous" — ha!