SELebrating Another Trip Around the Sun: Get to Know Kim

It's that time of year again – my birthday! As I reflect on another year of growth, challenges, and triumphs, I thought it would be fun to share a little more about myself with all of you. So, grab a margarita (or a cup of coffee in your favorite Starbucks mug), and let's dive in!

Favorite Eats and Treats

Gimme a salad any day…anytime. And a margarita! When it comes to food, I'm a salad lover through and through. There's just something about a fresh, crisp salad that makes my taste buds sing. Pair that with a margarita, and I'm in heaven! And let's not forget about my go-to wine, Louis Bouillot brut rose – an absolute go-to for any and ALL occasions! Monday night dinner, special anniversary, friends are in town visiting? This is what I choose every time!

The Educator at Heart

If I wasn't coaching and mentoring educators, what would I do? I'd go back to teaching in a heartbeat OR coaching some sort of professional dance team. Dance is just always still in my blood.

The Power of Children's Literature

As an educator, I know the importance of using picture books to teach social-emotional learning (SEL) skills. What is my favorite picture book to read to a class for SEL? Ooooh this is a hard one! It always depends on the class and what I know they need right at that very moment. I used to keep a small collection of my latest SEL books on my bookshelf, and then if we came into the classroom feeling a certain way, or an issue had popped up outside on the playground, I'd reach to grab something that I knew would prompt a great discussion. But at the beginning of the year, I think MAYBE by Kobi Yamada is probably one of my all-time favorites. Perfect for any age, and the pictures are just gorgeous. Plus, I mean, the pig is just too cute.

Personal Growth & Inspiration

What is my favorite all-time book for pleasure? Hmmmm…I am ALWAYS reading some sort of book around personal or professional growth. The ones that really stick in my brain are Girl Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis AND Daring Greatly by Brene Brown- I read both of these books right before we left to move from Southern California to Texas in 2020, and they're still two of my favorites. But right now I'm still obsessed with The Art of Bouncing Back by Darlene Santore AND Fear Is My Homeboy by Judi Holler. I think because they just remind me of all of the educators in my Community and that makes me happy. I also use all of the nuggets from those two books on the daily to keep me grounded and continue heading INTO those storms. I sure am hoping Becoming The Bison by yours truly becomes one of YOUR all-time favorite books for pleasure when it finally comes out in 2025! ;)

The # 1 SEL Strategy: The Working Clock

Of all my SEL strategies, which one is my # 1 favorite non-negotiable? My number one non-negotiable is The Working Clock. Hands down, that is a system that will truly transform your classroom. It's like it immediately multiplies YOU in the classroom. Being able to transition throughout the day seamlessly, and stop reminding kids HOW many minutes they have left to do something, it's all just so incredible when it's used consistently. It's also the easiest thing for parents to start implementing at home. They're dying for some support in their homes, and this is truly the perfect place to start. Just a clock and some markers are all they need!

Wanderlust and Dream Destinations

Where is my favorite place to travel? Ok, Hawaii is my all-time favorite place to travel. Any island, any time of year, it is definitely my happy place. The music, the smells, the breeze, and now that I live in Dallas, the OCEAN. Sleeping with the door open, and waking up to the sound of the waves makes me one happy gal. What's on my bucket list for travel? Hands down…it's Greece. Santorini to be exact. I have always just been obsessed with the white and blues on all the buildings, the ocean, and of course…the food. Italy would definitely be next on the list. Really anywhere with beautiful views, some vino, and the ocean. I'd be happy.

Quirky Habits and Favorite Tunes

What's the quirkiest habit or hobby I have that most people don't know about? I collect Starbucks coffee mugs from all the states and cities that I've been to. I just love them. When I wake up in the morning I always think about where I want to travel to, and I reminisce about that trip, the people, and the memories while I'm drinking my morning cup of joe! It's my favorite. What's my favorite song of all time? Of all time…Dreams by The Cranberries. I just LOVE it. It made me happy when I was a little girl, and it still hypes me up to this day. My boys know, if you want to put me in a good mood, tell me you want to plan a trip to Hawaii OR put on The Cranberries. Either one will do! ;)

So, there you have it – a little glimpse into my world! As I SELebrate another year, I'm filled with gratitude for the incredible people in my life, the experiences I've had, and the opportunities that lie ahead. Here's to another trip around the sun!

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