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EDITOR’S NOTE: The LaGrange Daily News is doing a Q&A with all of the teachers of the year in the Troup County School System. Today, we are writing about Kristen LaGree, Resource teacher for Kindergarten-Second Grade at Clearview Elementary School. We asked her 20 questions, and we shortened this interview to some of our favorite responses.

Kristen LaGree has worked in education for five years, all in the Troup County School System at Clearview Elementary School. She has a son who will be enrolled in Pre-K this year.

LaGree has coached cheerleading at Troup High School for the past four years. She also sings in the choir at her church, which she has done since a young age.

“It is rewarding to coach the program where I once cheered, and to share the knowledge and experiences I gained both during my time at Troup and as a collegiate cheerleader at the University of West Georgia (UWG). I truly enjoy being able to give back to the program that shaped me,” LaGree said.

What or who inspired you to become an educator? 

“I began my career in education as a one-on-one paraprofessional for a student with autism. This experience greatly expanded my understanding of various aspects of life and education. I was also inspired by my mother, Katina Ross, who is an educator within the same school system. It is incredibly rewarding to hear former students speak about how she has positively impacted their lives, both academically and personally. I have always been passionate about helping others, and what better way to do so than through education?”

What are your career aspirations? 

“My career aspirations are focused on continuing to grow and make a positive impact in the field of education. I strive to further develop my skills as an educator and help my students reach their full potential. In the future, I aim to take on leadership roles where I can influence educational practices and policies, advocating for the needs of my students. Ultimately, I want to create an environment where all students feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed, both academically and personally.’

If you weren’t a teacher, what career field would you be in? 

“I would pursue a career in business, with the goal of opening my own cheer gym.”

What hidden talent do you have that might surprise your students and our readers?

“A hidden talent of mine is running. I competed in track during high school and race my students every year at field day, winning each time.”

What fictional character (from a book, movie, TV show, etc.) represents your teaching style?

“I would say the teacher from Freedom Writers, Erin Gruwell. She has a laid-back style but shows her students that she truly cares. She listens to them and makes them feel heard. Her students trust her because she’s dedicated to their success and well-being, both in and out of the classroom.”

What’s the most creative/unique project one of your classes has worked on?

“With my kids being so young, I’ve focused on other activities, but I plan to start doing projects with them in the near future.”

If you could invite any historical figure to speak to your class, who would you choose and why?

“Having Simone Biles, a historic figure, come to speak to my class would be incredibly motivational and inspiring. Her story demonstrates that, no matter what anyone says, anything is possible with determination and perseverance.”

What’s the most rewarding part about your job? 

“The most rewarding aspect of my job is seeing my students master a goal. The sense of empowerment they gain from this achievement, coupled with the JOY it brings me, reinforces my passion for teaching and reminds me of my purpose.”

What’s the most challenging part of your job? 

“The most challenging part of my job is the paperwork. Many teachers before me have mentioned how much they love special education, but the paperwork can be overwhelming. However, with the support of my admin, paraprofessionals, and coordinators, I am able to manage it effectively.”

What’s the most unusual excuse a student has given you for not completing their homework? 

“I really don’t assign homework, unless a parent requests additional work.”

What did it mean to you to be named your school’s teacher of the year? 

“Being named Teacher of the Year meant a great deal to me. The votes from my colleagues reflected how they view me as an asset to the school, and I strive to always be available to support them in any way I can. While the job can sometimes feel overwhelming, being chosen for this award was definitely a confidence boost. It was also an honor, especially knowing that my mom has won this award four times.”

On a weekend or a summer day when school is out, what are your favorite activities? 

“My favorite weekend activity is spending time outdoors with my son. He loves being outside and is truly a nature lover. We also attend summer conditioning for cheerleading at Troup, where he likes to help me coach. The girls enjoy spending time with him as well!”

As your students transition to the next grade or graduate in May, what is one key takeaway you hope they carry forward from their time in your class? 

“One thing I hope my students take with them from their time in my class is that no matter what obstacles they face—whether in education or life—they have the ability to overcome them, and they will always have my support. When my students leave my classroom, I tell them, “Love you, mean it,” because I truly care for them as if they were my own.”