Throughout her career in elementary education, Laurie Keith has worked in a few different roles. Regardless of what position she has held or how education has changed over the years, two things have remained constant: Laurie’s love for children and her desire to see them succeed. It is for these reasons and many more that Mrs. Keith was named as the 2019-2020 recipient of the Woodford Outstanding Service Award for Huntertown Elementary.
Laurie has been an Instructional Assistant (I.A.) at Huntertown for seven years. For the last five years, she has worked as an English Language Learner (ELL) I.A. at both Huntertown and Northside Elementary Schools. With this specification, Laurie assists students who are learning English as a second language. The areas of focus for ELL students are listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Laurie explains that teaching kids vocabulary words is the foundation for all of these important abilities.
In order to practice vocabulary and to build skills in the focus areas, Mrs. Keith works with students in small groups throughout the week. This time may look different for each student or small group depending on what is needed; however, the ELL program does utilize a specific curriculum.
On some days, Laurie joins students in their classrooms. For example, she may sit with a student during a writing lesson and help them understand the instruction as their skills and confidence build. It is so rewarding for Laurie when she can tell the vocabulary practice and designated language help are beginning to take effect. She says, “Sometimes I get just as excited when they use an English word as I did when my own kids started to speak for the first time.” Laurie’s heart for children is certainly evident in the happiness it brings her to see her students learning.
When reflecting on her career in education, Mrs. Keith remarks, “I like the challenge of every day being new...However, in 2020, things seem to change by the minute.” Needless to say, the events of this year have certainly presented challenges for educators. In fact, Laurie says that the WOSA award was given to her at just the right time. Amidst the stress and long days of preparing for the return to school, Laurie said that this award affirmed for her that her efforts were worthwhile and that she was deeply appreciated by her colleagues.
Laura Emmons, who is a Bilingual Learner Teacher at Huntertown, says the following about her colleague, “I honestly cannot say enough positive things about Laurie. I can't think of anyone else I would rather work with. She is completely dedicated to her students and is always looking for ways to help them improve in their learning. She takes a personal interest in each of her students and makes a positive difference in their lives. She is truly deserving of the WOSA. She is a team player, always positive, and ready to jump in and help wherever she is needed.”
Additionally, Elaine Kaiser, Huntertown Principal, says, “Laurie is kind, patient, and really cares about kids. Laurie builds relationships with her students that help them feel comfortable and accepted. She will always search for a way to help students be successful and feel safe at school. She has a calming presence that draws students to her and encourages them to do their very best. This is especially important in a job where students may be learning not only a new language but culture, too.”
Whether it be children who are new to the English language or the colleagues she has known for years, Laurie Keith is always looking to encourage others and to help the people around her learn and be successful. We are so grateful to have someone as sincere and hardworking in our district as Laurie.
Congratulations on receiving the Woodford Outstanding Service Award, Laurie!
