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For almost two and a half decades, Bradfield has been blessed by our sweet, dear, and talented first grade teacher, Kristi Kimple. She is often spotted with a smile on her face, and can be heard speaking in her gentle way to students. She is known for her love of her parents (who will both be 90 next fall!), her love of dachshunds (especially Hazel!), and she is especially known for her love of her students.
When Miss Kimple was a student herself growing up in Duncanville, Texas she remembers three special teachers of her own. Her first, third and sixth grade teachers had such a meaningful impact on her, they would ultimately inspire her to pursue a career in education.
So after graduating from Duncanville High School, Miss Kimple went on to Texas Tech University to study elementary education. (I have witnessed heaps of friendly banter between my son Benjamin, a die hard Longhorn, and Miss Kimple over her Red Raiders!) After graduating from Tech she dabbled in the corporate world as a recruiter for Sabre Decision Technologies. Though very quickly her true calling to teach and inspire children in the classroom became clear, and she returned to Duncanville schools in 1996 as a first-grade teacher!
Six years later she received a fortuitous call from the Hyer principal informing her of a first-grade job opening at Bradfield, and he asked her to interview that same day! She happened to be at the zoo with her family, but she raced home, got ready and made it to the interview just in time. Lucky for us, that was 24 years ago, and the rest is history!!
As a first grade teacher of 30 years Miss Kimple knows well the important and lasting impact elementary education has on young students. She believes first grade lays the foundation for both academic learning and for a child’s confidence as a student. It’s a joy for her to watch her students beginning to see themselves as readers, writers and problem-solvers, and she knows these early experiences shape how they feel about learning for years to come.
Anyone lucky enough to know Miss Kimple will not be surprised to hear that her favorite parts of teaching are building relationships with her students and watching them grow in confidence throughout the school year. With first hand experience, I have seen the gentle and optimistic way Miss Kimple inspires her students both in their studies and (more importantly) to make choices that help them become kind and empathetic.
We all know first graders are curious and enthusiastic, and Miss Kimple loves this, too! She loves their questions, creativity and their unique perspectives that remind her why she chose to become a teacher. Miss Kimple says, “I may be biased, but I truly believe first grade is the most magical year, and I’ve been lucky enough to share in that joy and magic for 30 wonderful years!”
Having been at Bradfield 24 years of those 30 years, Miss Kimple has many favorite parts of both the old building and of the new. When I asked her what she loves the most about both her answers were nearly the same…her classrooms, spoken as a true teacher! She talks about the light and the trees through the windows, likely the same fond memories her students will have.
She also has other favorite parts of the school, and these are the people. Her first grade team is at the top of the list. She glows about what incredible teachers, collaborators, supporters and friends they are. She also mentioned our sweet, beloved Jeanne Peoples, who was like a second mom to so many.
I also asked Miss Kimple how she would describe the culture at Bradfield, and her answer struck me because it’s how I would describe her! She said, “The culture at Bradfield is one of warmth, inclusivity, and high expectations, where curiosity and creativity are celebrated. This supportive environment fosters collaboration, kindness and a shared commitment to learning. It allows children to feel safe to explore, take risks and grow, knowing they are valued and encouraged every step of the way.”
There’s no doubt Miss Kimple leads life with her whole heart. So when I asked her if there was anything else she wanted to share about her time at Bradfield, her answer said it all. “One thing that makes my heart happiest each day at Bradfield is the love from my students. When a former student stops by to give me a hug or calls my name out in the hall, it fills me with joy. It’s a true blessing and honor to know that I was even a small part of their lives. At Bradfield, once you are a Fabulous Firstie, you are always a Fabulous Firstie!”
Miss Kimple, YOU are a true blessing, and we are so proud you chose to be a Bradfield Bronco! We love you!
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