The latest KFM Teacher of the Month is Ashley Shinn, a Kindergarten teacher teacher at Silas Willard school in Galesburg. Ashely was nominated by Noelle Thompson whose daughter, Nimue is a student in Ashley’s class. As KFM’s Teacher of the Month, Ashley receives the Big Red Apple Award along with a $100 gift card and other gifts courtesy of Galesburg Nissan, Tompkins State Bank, Lacky Monuments, Cooks & Company, and 105.3 KFM. Here’s a little bit more about Ashley:
Where did you grow up? Galesburg
Years teaching: 11
Favorite part of teaching: The relationships. With students, with parents, with staff. I just love connecting with people and making sure others feel seen and heard and special.
Favorite subject growing up: Definitely reading!
Favorite subject to teach: Also, definitely reading. I love seeing the growth of literacy skills in kindergarten. And I love introducing my kids to books and series and characters they fall in love with!
Favorite Food: Do I have to pick just one?! Tacos, pizza, chips & dip, and fettuccine alfredo!
Least Favorite Food: Seafood
Favorite Movies: The Blind Side & The Secret: Dare to Dream
Favorite TV shows: Grey’s Anatomy & Parenthood
Favorite Books: Present over Perfect & The Hunger Games Series
Favorite Sports Team: St. Louis Cardinals-by marriage LOL
During my spare time I like to: Read, color, do puzzles, and send snail mail. Spend time with friends and family.
Something about me that you may not know: I initially wanted to be a pediatrician when I grew up because I wanted to help children. Then, I realized I hated science so I decided to become a teacher.
Here’s what Noelle had to say about Ashley:
What sets this teacher apart from others?
Teaching kindergarten online cannot be easy, but Mrs. Shinn never showed her class anything but a positive attitude. The 5- and 6-year-olds in her class could have started their schooling burdened by fear, frustration, and loneliness, but she brings so much joy to elearning that they have no idea that this isn’t typical school. They trust her guidance and follow her example.
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?
Mrs. Shinn stayed connected with her students during elearning by sending personal notes and goodies to each one almost weekly. She had never even met her students in person but she was able to make each child feel uniquely special and seen through this correspondence.
Give an example of a way this teacher has helped or impacted you or your child.
Nimue really loves Mrs. Shinn and she sought her approval and attention, but that can be hard to give over virtual meetings. Nevertheless, Mrs. Shinn made time for each of her students. Nimue could have gotten tired of virtual meetings everyday, but instead she looked forward to seeing Mrs. Shinn on the screen. Once she transitioned to in-person learning, she had no fear or nervousness because she trusted her teacher.
Congratulations Ashley Shinn April’s KFM Teacher of the Month from Galesburg Nissan, Tompkins State Bank, Lacky Monuments, Cooks & Company, and 105.3 KFM.
