Where do you teach? Taylorsville Elementary, Spencer County
What subject(s)/grade(s) do you teach? 1st Grade
How many years have you taught? 6
Why did you become a teacher? I became a teacher later in life, I wanted to work with children. I started subbing at school & many teachers told me I should go back to school to teach. Being a mom of young boys, I didn’t want to miss out on their things by going back to school. After 5 years of subbing, I moved into a Kindergarten Instructional Assistant position. During this time is when I discovered I could complete my MAT all online. I felt like this was doable for my family so I started the journey.
What has been the best part of teaching that you didn’t expect when entering the profession? My first year I taught Kindergarten. I had many students that came to school not kindergarten ready. Our school’s report cards are standards-based. When I gave assessments for the second nine weeks, I cried as I put the grades on my spreadsheet. The growth my class had made was amazing. It was at that moment I realized the impact I had on the students in my class. Seeing them grow both academically & socially is very rewarding!
What is one thing you wish non-teachers knew about what you do? I wish the public realized the importance of primary grades. These years set the stage for the rest of a student’s academic years.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as a teacher? My biggest accomplishment as a teacher is the relationships I make with my students and families. My students know I am always there for them and they come back often to share successes with me.
What is your favorite thing to do when you aren’t teaching? I love spending time with my family. Whether it’s hanging out at the lake, going to football games, sitting around the campfire, or getting together for dinner, being with family is my favorite thing to do.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? If I had a superpower, I would be able to create happiness wherever I go. My vision for this would be sadness shown in black and white and it turns colorful as I walked by. I love to make people happy.
Social media handles: Instagram: @kelhutt, TikTok:@kelhutt