Kelsey Smith '01
Degrees & Certifications: BA Colorado College 2009 Major: Anthropology - Minors: Education & Central American Studies; Master of Arts in Teaching: Elementary Education 2010- Colorado College
Years in education: 10
Favorite thing about St. Anne's: The people. From students to families to colleagues to alums, St. Anne's is a community of caring people grounded in humility, gratitude, and empathy. Day in and day out, I can give my all to these people while knowing that they will fill me and fuel me to keep going. It's an energetic cycle that keeps me invigorated and inspired.
Why did you choose to teach? Attending St. Anne's as a student from K-8, I was fortunate to have such phenomenal teachers who cared deeply for me. From early on, I felt drawn to coming back to teach at St. Anne's and be a part of that magic. Through high school and college, I coached kids tennis in the summers. No matter the context, I have always loved being around kids. Their energy, spirit, and light make me the best version of myself. I am motivated by helping them to know themselves, to be thoughtful & responsible members of their community, and to find joy in learning. And that helps me to do the same on my journey.
Hobbies or interests outside of school: Spending time with family & friends, kickboxing, learning Brazilian Portuguese, gardening, going on walks, and playing tennis-- anything outside! Reading Young Adult books about social justice, and cuddling with my cats, Leo & Luna.
Stuck on an island, what book do you bring with you?/Favorite book: Nevertheless, We Persisted: 48 Voices of Defiance, Strength, and Courage