Position: 1st Grade Teacher

College(s): CSUEB

Degrees/Certifications: Credential and Master's in Curriculum

Email: KatyKirkland@rcs.edu

How did God call you into teaching, and/or what are your professional credentials (or prior work experience)?

God has always given me a heart for working with children. I began my career teaching first grade at Our Lady of Grace, where I learned how to create engaging and imaginative learning spaces rooted in joy and curiosity. I have a Master’s in Curriculum and have continued to work in education outside the classroom, supporting neurodiverse students as an Education Specialist. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide range of learners—from kindergartners to high schoolers—tailoring lessons to each student's needs, interests, and learning style. I believe God equips us to meet students right where they are, and it’s been a privilege to walk alongside families in that calling.

What motivated you to become a teacher at Redwood Christian?

After a few years away from the classroom, I returned to teaching and was reminded how much I love working directly with students. I had been praying about the right long-term fit, and when I visited Redwood, something just clicked. The Christ-centered focus, the warmth of the community, and the way learning was being approached—I got the feeling, “this feels right”—like how I want to teach and the kind of place I want to be. I came away from that visit with a real sense of peace and purpose about applying.

Tell us about your family and how they are looking forward to this new opportunity.

My mom has been really supportive and excited for me as I take this next step. She’s been a big encouragement and is happy to see me doing something I love. We’re both looking forward to how this new chapter unfolds.

What is a unique experience, talent or interest that you bring to your classroom to help shape the learning experience of your students?

I bring a love of travel and exploration into the classroom, helping students discover places all over the USA and the world. One of my favorite projects is having students write letters to request postcards from different locations, then mapping where we receive them. I also enjoy guiding kids to explore national parks and landmarks using tools like Google Maps and Google Earth. This hands-on, interactive approach helps students connect with geography and culture in a meaningful way, while sparking their curiosity and sense of adventure.

Do you have any other hobbies/interests outside of teaching?

I love to travel, hike, go to the beach, and camp. Being outdoors helps me recharge and gives me new ideas to bring into the classroom. Exploring nature and different places inspires me and keeps my teaching fresh and exciting.

Our tagline is “Inspiring Futures.” How will a time you’ve been inspired shaped your teaching?

A time I was really inspired was when my class raised ladybugs and butterflies and kept journals to observe their growth and changes. Watching the kids care for these living creatures, record their observations, and learn to type their thoughts really showed me how hands-on, meaningful experiences bring learning to life. That inspiration shapes my teaching by reminding me to create opportunities where kids can explore, be curious, and build skills in creative, engaging ways. It’s exciting to see how these moments plant seeds that help inspire their futures.