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4th-grade teacher Brenda Kennedy has been a constant force at Franklin Elementary School. Once inside her classroom, you can instantly see the learning, collaboration, and support that has been happening for generations.
Kennedy has been creating this environment since she started at Franklin in 1991. Just ask her longtime classroom volunteer John Benka. He’s seen her impact first-hand.
“There are no invisible students in her classroom,” said Benka. “Fourth graders can be shy, reserved, questioning their own talent. She knows every kid in the class, every kid is visible, and she doesn't have to wear glasses, you know what I mean? She knows the kids.”
The longtime Franklin teacher has watched 32 school years come and fade into summer, yet this one offers a new challenge…saying goodbye. Kennedy is soaking up the final days of the year and her career before she heads into a well-deserved retirement.
Before departing, Kennedy, as she has done with countless students in the past, made sure that Benka felt acknowledged and appreciated. Because he, too, is a mainstay at Franklin. Twice a week for 12 years, without fail, Benka is volunteering in Kennedy’s classroom.
“I really, really do appreciate him. You know, I don't know what I would have done,” said Kennedy.
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