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Kayla Calkins - Teacher Spotlight

Job Title: 7/8 Humanities Teacher

A Little bit about Miss Calkins: I was born and raised in Lakin. I received my degree from K-State (Go Cats) in May 2021. In 2022 I spent 11 months traveling to 10 different countries (Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Panama, Peru, eSwatini, Lesotho, and South Africa) doing mission work. After coming back in December 2022, I started working in my role at Lakin Middle School that next January. Since then, I have enjoyed my not only serving as a teacher but by also coaching Middle School volleyball and being the Middle School Fellowship of Christian Athletes Sponsor. 

Years In Education: 2 1/2 years at Lakin

What do I like about Teaching: I really enjoy being able to be there for my students. Whether they need someone to be excited for them about getting a good grade on a test and someone to show their latest Tik Tok dance to or if they need someone to advocate for them when they feel like they have no one else in their corner or simply need a hug or a smile on those certain days that  are just more difficult than others. 

Favorite Teaching Memories: 8th Grade vs Faculty basketball game or being able to coach volleyball.

Words of Wisdom: Middle school is the time to try something new. Try a new class. Go out for a new sport or activity. If you don't like it, you don't have to do it again next year. But who knows, you may love it!