Congratulations to Karen Kunkle - Reuben Elementary Teacher of the Year!
"My favorite thing as a teacher is watching children learn and grow academically, physically, and socially. I want to be a positive and supportive influence in a child’s life.
"Our administration from the school office to the district office trusts and supports their teachers to make the best decisions in their classrooms. Also, teachers across the district help and support one another."
HOMETOWN: Prosperity
HIGH SCHOOL: Mid-Carolina High School
COLLEGE: University of South Carolina
YEARS IN EDUCATION: 28
FAVORITE BOOK: Besides the Bible, my favorite book is Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan.
HOBBIES: One of my favorite activities to do is travel to small towns while shopping and eating their local fare.
IF I WEREN’T A TEACHER...I might have been an X-ray technician (radiographer) of some sort.
SPECIAL THANKS: In my 28 years as a teacher, the scariest thing and best thing happened to me all in one year. The scariest thing was having to move to a different school and a different grade level the third week of school. I did volunteer to go, which was a great test of faith for me. The best thing was having the honor of being named Teacher of the Year for the first time in my career. I can’t say enough about the supportive staff of Reuben Elementary. They welcomed me with open arms. I want to thank the Lord who got me through this year. He sent me help and support through my Reuben family and my Boundary Street first grade family. I have personally experienced such love and support from teachers across the district. The Newberry School District has truly been One Team for me this year and I want to thank all of you.
FAVORITE TEACHER: Ms. Linda Griffin was my Geometry teacher in high school and my favorite teacher. I always looked forward to her class. She was sweet and patient with her students. She could explain the different parts of geometry so that everyone could understand. She knew her subject very well. She was not afraid to laugh and have fun with her students. She created a light, enjoyable atmosphere in her classroom.