Kristal Doolin In my first article last year, I used the word “surreal” more than once to describe being named 2013 Kentucky Teacher of the Year. In the closing statements of that article I said, “I cannot wait to meet and learn from other dedicated educators here in Kentucky and across the nation. “Surreal” can hardly describe it.” [...]
Kristal Doolin In his second annual message to Congress in December 1862 Abraham Lincoln wrote, “The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise — with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew.” Although I do not equate any personal struggles with that of Lincoln’s during his years [...]
Kristal Doolin By the time this article is posted online, I will have already welcomed my new students, established rules and routines, and set them up in our digital classroom on Edmodo, the first of many technology tools we will use this year. As summer slips away and you make plans for meeting Kentucky Core Academic Standards and Program [...]
Over the years, I’ve used many methods to learn about my students, but really feel like I found the perfect match with my introduction letter assignment.
If you haven’t considered National Board Certification, I encourage you to take those first steps. I’m sure you have heard that it is difficult, but learning about the process and programs that are out there to support you before beginning can make a difference.
I recently returned from “Washington Recognition Week” in our nation’s capital and all I can say is that I wish every teacher across Kentucky could be doted on as I and my fellow State Teachers of the Year were during this week.
Kristal Doolin Mark Twain said, “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.” Throughout my education, I was very fortunate to be surrounded by remarkable teachers who embodied this quote. My sixth-grade teacher, for example, led me to [...]
Kristal Doolin Kentucky Teacher of the Year, Kristal Doolin, recently spoke to a group of pre-service teachers and shared advice as they prepare to enter the profession. Much of her message should resonate with veteran classroom teachers and serve as good reminders for them as well. Below is a portion of her address. Mother Teresa said, “I alone [...]
Kristal Doolin Charles Schulz’s infamous Peanuts character Lucy Van Pelt once said, “Try not to have a good time…this is supposed to be educational.” Sorry, Lucy, but I was determined to make my recent opportunity to represent our state at the Chief Council of State School Officers National Teacher of the Year Conference both educational and fun for [...]
Kristal Doolin I am a great admirer of those who came before me, and I believe there is much to be said for the wisdom of intelligent people. As anyone who reads my writing or visits my classroom knows, this admiration leads me to quote others frequently. There are well-known quotes, however, that I do not appreciate. As [...]