Rockford Teacher Leaves Lasting Impact On Students and Teaching Community

Riverdahl Elementary teacher, Kelly Garrie, was nominated for 97ZOK's Teacher of the Week for her inspiring mentorship and dedication to students in Rockford, Illinois.

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97ZOK Teacher of the Week

Congratulations to Kelly Garrie from Riverdahl Elementary School in Rockford, Illinois

Bre Fry nominated Kelly, she writes,

The teacher that I would like to nominate is Kelly Garrie. I started working with her last year as a one-on-one para for a student in her room. She is retiring this year. Being in her room opened my eyes to my love of being in the classroom. She inspired me to go to school to become a teacher myself. I don't think she gets enough recognition for how amazing she is. She is another mom figure in my life. I can only hope from the guidance I got from her one day I will be as great of a teacher as she is. I could go on forever but I am truly grateful for her. I don't think she hears it enough about how great of a teacher she is. She approached me last year I put in as a lunch aide and heard I was looking to be a Para and asked if I wanted to be in her room. I was shocked and nervous because I knew she was a great teacher and wasn't sure I would meet her expectations. So she talked to the boss and requested I be put in her room. I am so glad I got that opportunity. I'm forever thankful for everything she has taught me. She truly deserves to be recognized. Just as a reminder someone thinks the world of her.

Design by Steve Shannon

As Teacher of the Week, Kelly was surprised with a cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes and money to spend at WM Day Spa Salon.

You can nominate your favorite teacher HERE. Click HERE to see past Teachers of the Week.