In her 26th year of teaching, with her incredible communication and dedication to her students, 4th-6th grade Special Education teacher Mrs. Kim Kirk was named Bixby Central Intermediate’s Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Kirk prefers tea over coffee, fall over winter and summer, and dogs over cats.
As a student, Mrs. Kirk had teachers who taught her about advocacy and fostering relationships, so she wanted to do the same, and it led her to her profession. She enjoys “watching [her] students reach their potential,” and making connections with both students and parents.
Mrs. Kirk’s years of teaching have taught her patience, and she values the importance of listening to parents, because “you’re dealing with someone very, very special to them.” This goes hand in hand with proper communication, which Mrs. Kirk believes is her best quality.
To feel inspired, Mrs. Kirk turns to other teachers, and says that “it’s just really fun to see what kind of ideas they come up with, [and] to see how they set up their room.”
When asked what advice she would give to new teachers, Mrs. Kirk said that “you will always be learning how to do something differently or how to do it better,” and “just stick it out because it can be hard, but it’s worth it.”
Mrs. Kirk is a powerful example of intention and kindness in the classroom, and BPS is lucky to have her. Congratulations Mrs. Kirk!