October’s KFM Teacher of the Month is Jeri Kitchin a 1st grade teacher at United North Elementary School in Alexis. She was nominated by Nicki Gulick-Stanaland, who’s son Drake was a student in Mrs Kitchin’s class last year.
As KFM’s Teacher of the Month, Mrs Kitchin receives the Big Red Apple Award along with a $100 gift card and other prizes courtesy of Galesburg Nissan, Tompkins State Bank, Galesburg Flower Company and Lacky Monuments, Here’s a little bit about Mrs Kitchin:
Where did you grow up? California and Illinois
Years teaching: 17 (6 at United)
Favorite Subject Growing Up: Math
Favorite Subject To Teach: Math
Favorite Food: Pizza
Least Favorite Food: Liver
My Favorite Movie: The President
My Favorite Book: Jenny B Jones books
On my spare time I like to: Going to the lake, boating and reading
And here’s what Nicki had to say about Mrs Kitchin:
What sets this teacher apart from others? My son was a new student to United North last year and Mrs. Kitchin was his teacher. I feel like she went out of her way to welcome him and make sure he adapted to the school. I feel like Mrs Kitchin truly took my son under her wing and ensured he was placed in extra learning to get him up to speed to where he needed to be, so there would not be a struggle come 2nd grade.
What is one thing this teacher does that is not in their job description but they do it anyway to help you or your child? I’ve seen Mrs. Kitchin talk to students – whether for good reasons or bad, and she always kneeled down to their level. I think that makes it less intimidating for the children. Her doors are always open to parents that want to visit class. Additionally, over the summer she sent the kids a letter telling them what she had done over the summer and inviting them to come visit her. She had sent a packet home at the end of the year encouraging the kids to continue reading, practicing math and learning in general. If they brought the workbook back to her at the beginning of the next year, she would give them a prize. That is certainly something she went out of her way to do.
Give an example of a way this teacher has helped or impacted you or your child? My son was slightly behind on his learning level due to being at a different school previously. I believe United’s curriculum is a little more advanced. I never really felt like his 1st grade teacher (at the other school) cared if he did well or not. I believe if it hadn’t been for Mrs. Jeri Kitchin, my son may not have caught up to the level he needed to be at and would still be struggling and hating school. Teaching is truly her super power!
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As KFM’s Teacher of the Month, Jeri receives the Big Red Apple Award, a $100 gift card, and other gifts. Honoring teachers who make a difference with the Big Red Apple Award from Galesburg Nissan, Tompkins State Bank, Lacky Monuments, Galesburg Flower Company and 105.3 KFM.
