Harrington Elementary School 2026

Kelly Darst

Harrington Elementary School - First Grade Elementary Teacher
E-mail congrats

Teaching Philosophy

I believe my philosophy of teaching is best summarized as teaching the whole child with patience and purpose. With a foundation in psychology, I approach teaching with flexibility and an understanding of child development, intentionally planning instruction that is developmentally appropriate and responsive to students' needs.

In my 29 years of teaching, including 25 years in first grade, I have come to see first grade as a pivotal year in a child's educational experience. Students are building foundational academic skills while also learning how to navigate school routines, friendships, and growing independence. I believe my role as a teacher is to meet students where they are developmentally, build meaningful relationships, and create a classroom environment where learning is engaging, supportive, and joyful.

Before children can truly learn, they must know they are cared for and supported. I make it a priority to get to know my students as individuals—not only through required assessments, but through conversations that help me understand their interests, personalities, strengths, and challenges. Taking the time to build these relationships helps students feel safe being themselves, asking questions, and taking risks. When students know they are valued, they gain confidence in their abilities and trust in the learning process.

Flexibility and patience are essential in a first-grade classroom. Children grow and learn at different paces, and no two days are ever the same. I strive to meet each student where they are, understanding that some days require extra encouragement and support, while others allow students to work more independently. I create a classroom culture where mistakes are viewed as an important part of learning and effort is always valued. Our school motto, Effort Produces Achievement and Motivation Matters, is embraced by my students. They understand that my expectation is simply that they try their best—and that motivation plays a key role in their success.

Understanding child development influences every decision I make in my classroom. My students are still developing socially, emotionally, and academically, so I design lessons that are hands-on, engaging, and developmentally appropriate. I incorporate movement, play, and collaboration to help students stay focused and excited about learning. These experiences not only strengthen academic foundations but also foster essential life skills such as cooperation, empathy, and perseverance.

I believe learning should be fun. When students enjoy learning, they are more engaged and open to new challenges. I strive to create a warm, welcoming classroom where students are excited to come to school and proud of their growth. Conversation and collaboration are encouraged, and the happy buzz of students learning together is an intentional and developmentally appropriate part of my classroom.

Ultimately, my goal as a first-grade teacher is to nurture the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally. I want my students to leave my classroom believing in themselves, confident in their abilities, prepared for the next step in their learning, and knowing that they are cared for and capable of great things.

---

Principal's Recommendation

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my absolute honor to write this letter of recommendation for Mrs. Kelly Darst as a Teacher of the Year nominee. Mrs. Darst has been a wonderful asset to our campus and is truly deserving of this recognition.

Kelly is a passionate educator who consistently goes above and beyond for her students and their families. Her love for teaching is evident in everything she does. She demonstrates compassion, patience, and empathy daily, creating a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow both academically and emotionally.

Parents frequently share positive feedback about Mrs. Darst, noting how supportive and encouraging she is with their children. They express appreciation for her consistent communication and her genuine care for student success. It is clear that families trust her and value the strong relationships she builds.

Mrs. Darst's commitment extends well beyond the classroom. She regularly attends after-school events to support her students, always bringing positivity and joy while making meaningful connections. Her presence at these events reinforces her dedication to her students and to building a strong school community.

In addition to her work with students, Mrs. Darst is a respected leader on campus. With years of experience, she provides guidance, support, and encouragement to fellow teachers and staff. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration, professionalism, and a deep commitment to excellence in education.

Mrs. Kelly Darst exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. Her passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to students make her an exceptional candidate for Teacher of the Year

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Waller
Principal
Harrington Elementary School