Serving as an intervention teacher, Kristen Spain is Eugene Field Elementary’s Teacher of the Year.
According to her colleague, second-grade teacher Katie Moss, Spain, “excels in clear and compassionate communication with students and families to make them feel valued and heard.”
She assists students in first through third grades in both reading and math. Spain previously taught each grade as a classroom teacher.
Spain’s personal mission statement is, “to deliver the highest quality education in the most positive and collaborative environment.”
Fellow interventionist Juliana Shalk praised her personal touch and authenticity with both students and parents.
“When having difficult conversations with parents, she maintains professional composure as she guides and focuses the conversation on the issues, productive steps to take, and outcomes to achieve,” Schalk elaborated.
Heather Liszewski of the Missouri Department of Corrections said Spain’s work is critical in keeping children on the right path. Her son described Spain as his favorite teacher during his first-grade experience.
Liszewski affirmed, “She has shown unwavering commitment to her students’ growth and development, and her influence extends beyond the classroom.”
Parent Shanda Felts retold the story of Spain’s calm demeanor when faced with learning challenges. Felts explained she came up with an extensive learning plan for her son in school and at home.
Her son Parker wrote, “She was the best teacher I have ever had.”
Another parent, Crystal Jackson, said Spain called and texted every day when her daughter was in the hospital.
“She also took time away from her own kids and husband to come to the hospital to visit,” Jackson wrote, “She sat in the chair beside my daughter’s bed and visited like she was family.”
Moss stated Spain is well respected, an easy nomination for Teacher of the Year, and an excellent example to her fellow teachers.
Spain holds a bachelor’s in elementary education from Central Methodist University and two master’s degrees. She has her master’s in education in administration from William Woods University and Reading Literacy from Missouri State University.