Kim Harken has been teaching at Clay Central/Everly for 21 years. She remains in the district for numerous reasons, one of which being CC/E's unique size.

"There is no denying the difference a smaller school makes in preparing students for success," she said. "Throughout the years I have taught here, CC/E has consistently had some of the highest academic scores within our surrounding area schools. We have several excellent veteran teachers with many years of expertise. Our students are not just an ID number. We make a point to connect with each student and family on a personal level," stated Harken.

This school year Harken is most excited to provide and utilize combined resources to adjust to the current pandemic.

"I have been teaching some students virtually who have decided to learn remotely because of the COVID-19 outbreak," she explained. "It has been a challenge to discover ways to keep young students engaged in their learning when cartoons and the refrigerator are only a few steps away. I am also in charge of our remote learning program the district purchased for our remote learners. This has all been a huge learning experience and I love learning a completely new way to educate students."

Harken noted the pandemic has advanced every district's efforts in expanding and enhancing virtual classroom learning. She stressed that everyone from teachers, administration and staff to community members as a whole have been collaborating to be certain the needs of students and families are met throughout the pandemic. She and her coworkers have been amazed watching that support combine for the benefit of the district's families.

Harken's favorite aspect of teaching wasn't hard to think of.

"Of course, working with students is the best part!" she said. "I love to take a student who feels like it is impossible to do or learn something and build their confidence with success after success. We can all do great things when someone believes in us. CC/E has always had some of the best teachers around. They truly care about their students' academics as well as their emotional and physical well-being."

Harken noted that there is always something to learn from those around us.

"I believe we are influenced by teachers daily throughout our lives, whether it's a classroom teacher, a parent, a grandparent, clergy or your best friend," she said. "We are all surrounded by teachers and if we listen with an open mind and an open heart, everyone has something of value to share."