I also enjoy being a consistent, caring adult in the lives of my students, and really want them to be successful in life.”

Kelly Holt

Kelly Holt knew she wanted to be a teacher since she was in 2nd grade. As someone who grew up in Hastings public schools, she had many great teachers, but one stood out - Mrs. Kennealy. 

“The relationships she had with kids, the way that she taught, her sense of humor, her way of nurturing kids and also showing tough love, are all things I admired. She was the best role model,” Holt said.

Once Kelly knew teaching was her goal, she completed a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, with added additional training for special education. She then went on to complete her Master’s degree in reading from the University of Wisconsin - River Falls. 

This training has been put to good use in her 20 years in the classroom, where she said the best feeling is seeing kids understand a concept she is teaching. 

“I also enjoy being a consistent, caring adult in the lives of my students, and really want them to be successful in life,” she said.  

When asked what she wishes parents knew about her classroom, she answered in three parts. 

1. “I wish parents knew how challenging it is to teach and manage student behavior at the same time.”
2. “I wish parents knew how many hours teachers spend outside of school, writing lesson plans, grading papers and creating cool projects for my students, so that they enjoy coming to school.”
3. “I wish parents knew that all I wish for their children is success, respect and kindness.”

The work of a classroom teacher is vast and multifaceted, with so much on their plates, it almost seems they have super powers to get it all done! 

When Kelly finds free time away from teaching, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters. They love to travel, be outside, play games and enjoy Friday pizza nights. She also enjoys gardening, gym workouts, reading and spending time with friends.

Let’s hope this time with friends and nature, fills her bucket - because she definitely gives of herself with her classroom students. It’s truly the caring and dedication of teachers like Kelly Holt that make us #200 Strong!