Scientifically, we are animals. (certainly not plant/fungi/protista) But we are much more than just that.
Humans were made in God's image. To be a reflection of God. To have control over the animals. To take care of them and the planet. Sadly, over all we do a pretty poor job of it. But humans and only humans have that ability to change the planet be it for better or worse.
The question did not ask how are humans classified scientifically. As a former science teacher element already knows the answer to that.
The question asked do I consider myself an animal. No I do not...I have a Biblical world view rather than an evolutionary one in regards to abiogenesis.
God made humans. We did not evolve from a single celled organism.