Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of our district. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Kim Schlereth, Special Education Teacher at Lansing High School
Question: How long have you worked in Lansing USD469?
Answer: 7 years
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I am a special educator at Lansing High School working primarily with tenth grade students.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: I am passionate about teaching students and advocating for their learning needs. I LOVE seeing their progress over the course of their high school years and as they transition to post-secondary education or employment. It is a great privilege to be a small part of their education!
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: I LOVE LOVE LOVE being with my favorite people in the world: my husband and also my two boys that are young men, now. I like shopping thrift stores, antiquing, reading, and being a sports fan. A happy place for me is being at home, being outside digging in the dirt, mowing the grass, tending to flowers, or working on some other home project.
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: I find bees fascinating and took a beekeeping class. I think that I'd like to be a beekeeper when I retire.
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: There are so many faces and names over the years, and each student etches a special place in my heart. My most memorable experiences in teaching involve doing what I am able to help students grow their skills and achieve their life goals. Watching students achieve in areas that are especially difficult for them is a great joy!
Question: What piece of advice would you like to offer to students to help them succeed and make the most of their educational journey?
Answer: To our students: Never forget you are loved and uniquely gifted for a purpose! Be the "hardest worker in the room" at whatever you put your hands to. Engaging in the classroom is an investment in yourself; make the most of every opportunity. Look up from your phone; there is a lot of life to see happening all around you. Surround yourself with people that you admire and have the skill set that you want to acquire. There is so much you can learn from others, so never be afraid to ask questions or ask for help! Don't worry. I know...it's hard not to, though. Remember, you've got this! I'll forever be cheering you on! ~Mrs. Schlereth