Think back to when you were a student, back-to-school shopping, finding your classroom, and the exciting lessons that would soon fill your day. The first day of school jitters that were calmed by the friendly, welcoming face, and celebrating the “ah ha” moments when you finally figured out how to solve the problem. Then there was the time in kindergarten, when you went to the restroom but couldn’t remember the way back to your classroom. As panic set in, that friendly face walked around the corner and they knew exactly where your classroom was. These champions make math exciting and words come to life through reading and writing, they stood beside you and cheered as you mastered kickball, that difficult note, or the masterpiece that needed a little finesse.
Although everyone’s school experience was different, teachers are the common thread throughout classrooms and schools. They are the first to welcome you to a new class, they spend extra time working through a challenging problem, and they give you a high five when you accomplish your goals.
St. Vrain is the proud home to nearly 2,000 teachers who spend their days preparing our students for the future. Join us in celebrating our teachers and learn what they enjoy about teaching, why they became teacher and what their favorite memory is from the days they spent as a student in the classroom.
Thank you to all of our teachers.
Getting to know:
Kristen Palmer
Kindergarten
Central Elementary
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
I enjoy watching students get excited about learning. Their enthusiasm drives me in my passion for teaching. I love the moment when a student’s mind “clicks” and they see they are capable of reaching higher than they believed they could.
Briefly tell us about the path you took to becoming a teacher?
I come from a long line of educators. My mom taught Kindergarten in the district for many years. I spent much of my childhood playing and helping in her classroom. My passion for teaching came through watching my mom teach. I was so inspired. I ventured off track a little in college and studied communications for a year until I realized that education was really my calling. I love working with students and with other teachers. I have learned so much from the amazing teachers I have had the opportunity to work with, and every year I learn from the students that enter my classroom.
What is your favorite memory from when you were a student?
In second grade I had a wonderful teacher (Mrs. Hipsher) who taught me more than just reading and math skills. She taught her students the importance of caring for one another and being kind. Her classroom was appropriately named “Smilesville”. I remember loving school and loving the community of learners I worked with each day because I felt valued and cared for by my teacher and by my fellow students.