On April 25th, Circle Public Schools welcomed the Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) nominee team to tour our district. This year’s group was led by Circle Greenwich Elementary first grade teacher Lynsi Martinez, who represents our region as a 2023 KTOY nominee.
The visit included stops at several schools to highlight programs, facility upgrades, and instructional practices.
Martinez, who was named the Circle Publics School Primary Teacher of the Year for 2022-2023 recently gave us insight into her KTOY experience.
Can you tell us how you felt when you found out you were nominated for Kansas Teacher of the Year?
When I found out I was nominated, I really was just in shock at first. I never expected to receive that kind of honor and recognition. I would say one of the best memories tied to my nomination was hearing my husband, a fellow teacher in the district, proudly and loudly proclaim, "That's my wife!" from the back of the auditorium after it was announced. We are both passionate educators who love serving the kids in this district and to be able to have his support has meant everything to me.
What have been the most meaningful moments of your KTOY journey?
I think the most meaningful part has been meeting fellow teachers from across the state, hearing their stories and getting to experience what makes their districts and schools unique and special. There is so much value and so much to be learned from seeing other educators in action, and being able to witness all of the amazing things we are doing for Kansas kids. This experience has allowed me to bring back new ideas and fresh perspectives to my building and district leadership teams to advocate and promote positive change at Circle.
After visiting schools across Kansas, what makes you especially proud to teach in Circle Public Schools?
After every district visit, upon my return, I always had the feeling of "It's so good to be home. " Circle truly is home for me. I began my journey in education here back in 2011 in first grade and am still here 14 years later, doing what I love. Our communities, families, students and staff are truly what makes this district thrive. We show up for one another in the big and small ways. We support one another, and are committed to creating and sustaining a culture we can be proud of.
What were you most excited to show your fellow nominees during their visit to our district?
Over the course of my time in the district, I have experienced how our community has supported our schools with our various bonds, so I was eager to show off our beautiful facilities. I was also excited for them to experience the positive culture I had been bragging about all year, and to let them see how we love and show up for our kids every day.
How has the KTOY experience influenced your goals or perspective as an educator?
This experience has reinvigorated my passion for what I do, and has empowered me to see myself as a leader and advocate for educators and students not just within my district , but throughout our state. The KTOY program is one of the premiere teacher of the year programs in the United States because of the way it provides networking opportunities with so many amazing teachers you wouldn't get to know otherwise. I know the connections I have made will last a lifetime. This experience has opened my eyes to the impact that I can have beyond just the four walls of my classroom.
What advice would you give to other teachers who are just beginning their journey in education?
Keep up the good fight! This job can be so hard, but showing up for kids will always be worth it. There is nothing else that can beat the feeling of making it to the end of a school year with your babies and celebrating their growth and accomplishments. When those kids move on and grow up and come back to see you because of the impact and imprint you've left on their heart, you know you've won.
I would also say to them that they can't do it all on their own. I would explain to them the marigold effect. In gardening there is something called companion planting, which is where gardeners place certain plants next to one another to improve growth for one or both plants. If you plant a marigold beside most any garden vegetable, that vegetable will grow big and strong and healthy, protected and encouraged by its marigold.
Marigolds exist in education too, so I would tell them to "find a marigold" who encourages, supports and nurtures them along the way, and to be one for someone else. We are stronger, together!
Thank you, Mrs. Martinez, for all you do for Circle Public Schools and the students of Circle Greenwich Elementary!