No, I was never her student. I met her when I was working for the local paper as education reporter. (I've met a LOT of teachers!) She immediately struck me as remarkable.Since then we've gotten to know each other a little more. The girls and I have made cookies in her kitchen. But she's a busy gal, and we're no slouches, so getting together is tough. I enjoy all the time we do get to spend with her.
Last week the girls and I enjoyed a special day in her classroom, learning about early-American games, food and shelter. One of the classmates is the younger sister of one of my former SJHS swimmers. She adopted OUR girls right away, and they were off!
Kelly is an amazingly energetic, organized, positive woman. She is a wonderful inspiration for her students, and folks like me. Heck, she probably inspires just about everyone who's spent any time with her. She's quick with a smile, gets on wonderfully with her students, and is so full of fantastic ideas! In addition, she raises her own two boys, and has served as coach of various youth teams and adviser to after school clubs. I really don't know how she does it all. Her latest is Project F.A.R. and W.I.D.E. Deliveries of the goods have traveled far and wide, alright! You can bet the girls and I will be getting involved with that one! Won't you join us?
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We know Kelly quite well, also! All three of my children had her(I was room mother each time) and she definitely ranks as a favorite teacher!
ReplyDeleteMy kids have been a baby(Sarah, often), house or dog sitter for Kelly:) The year my son was in her classroom, she had "Bill Clinton" pay a visit(on election day) and talk about the importance of voting:)
P.S. Sarah was also very happy to student-teach with Kelly VanAllen:) Kelly was happy about that too!
ReplyDeleteI had the privilege of student teaching with Kelly in 2005. What a treat!
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