Edmond Schools District has named Cimarron Middle School’s Kristin Linholm, a 6th grade literacy and social studies teacher 2016-2017 Edmond Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made on April 19 by Superintendent Bret Towne during the Celebration of Excellence sponsored by the Edmond Public Schools Foundation held at Oak Tree Country Club.
Linholm was selected by the district’s professional development committee after a comprehensive process that involved interviews as well as submission of a portfolio, a letter of recommendation and a video showcasing her teaching style and philosophy.
Edmond schools Superintendent, Bret Towne described Linholm as a devoted instructor and applauded her instruction model. “Her instruction is not only engaging, but challenging. She works well with her colleagues, serving as a partner and a mentor for many Cimarron Middle School staff members. She is a strong leader in her building and in our district.” said Superintendent Bret Towne.
Family of Teachers
According to an article published on the Edmond public schools website, Linholm came from a family of teachers. Three of her grandparents were teachers. Her maternal grandmother, Georgia Kerley, was named Edmond Teacher of the Year in 1979. She says her grandmother’s teaching style inspired her to become a teacher.
“When I entered her classroom, I always had to look around to locate her because she would be at her students’ level interacting with them, making their lessons come alive. Spending time in her classroom became life-changing for me as I knew that one day I wanted to have my own classroom.”
In her teacher portfolio, Linholm says: “I have found if areas are targeted and obtainable reading goals are set, students are more centered and intentional when working on the skills the following week. When positive gains are made by the individual readers, the whole class celebrates. These triumphs define success in action.”
Linholm has a 26-year experience in the teaching profession. Since 1990 when she started her career, she has taught two elementary schools and three middle schools in Edmond. She holds several teaching certifications and a Master’s degree in counselling.
Cimarron Principal Cordell Ehrich attributes Linholm’s teaching success to her counselling background. “She builds deep relationships with both her students and colleagues and in our building is considered a leader of leaders.”
Other Front Runners
Other front runners in the Edmond Teacher of the Year competition were Amy Fine from Sequoyah Middle School, Beth Stukey from Central Middle School, Johanna Belt from Chisholm Elementary, Robyn Hays from Frontier Elementary and Stephanie Reynolds from Centennial Elementary.
Linholm will now represent Edmond schools in the state Teacher of the Year competition facilitated by the Oklahoma Department of Education. The state Teacher of the Year will be announced in September.