Most mornings at Meridian School District begin quietly, long before the hallways fill with voices and the rhythm of the school day takes hold. By 7:00 a.m., Kristy Duncan is already at her desk, reading emails, preparing for meetings, and getting ready for a day that will touch the lives of students from Pre-K through high school.

Her title—Director of Student Services—doesn’t fully capture the heart of her work. In many ways, Kristy serves as a bridge, connecting students, families, teachers, administrators, and specialized service providers to ensure every child has what they need to succeed.

“I’m kind of the go-between,” she explained. “My job is to help facilitate services and make sure students and families get the support they need.”

That support often comes through formal plans designed to help students overcome challenges related to learning, health, or development. Kristy oversees roughly 100 students who receive accommodations through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans—nearly a quarter of Meridian’s student population. Each plan is carefully designed to help students access their education fully, whether that means speech services, occupational therapy, classroom accommodations, or other supports.

Her role carries both responsibility and trust. She represents the district in meetings with families and specialists, helps coordinate services, and ensures everything is handled properly and compassionately.

But Kristy sees her job as more than paperwork and meetings. “My goal is to be there for the families, the community, and the students,” she said. “It’s about helping everyone feel comfortable and making sure students have what they need to be successful.”

Her path to Meridian reflects both determination and a lifelong commitment to education. A graduate of Pope County High School, Kristy began her career with humble beginnings. After marrying young, she and her husband made sacrifices so she could continue her education. By the age of 30, she had earned her teaching certificate from Southern Illinois University and began teaching kindergarten.

Over the years, she taught multiple grade levels, from kindergarten through junior high, gaining valuable experience and insight into how students grow and learn. “I’ve taught third grade through junior high, and kindergarten,” she said. “Each grade level has its perks and its challenges. I’ve learned a lot through the school of hard knocks.”

She continued her education along the way, earning a master’s degree and principal endorsement. That preparation helped lead her to Meridian, where she stepped into her current role in October.

Although the position brought new challenges, Kristy embraced the opportunity. “I love challenges,” she said. “As educators, our goal is always to see students succeed. Whatever role we’re in, that’s what matters most.”

Her days are filled with meetings, phone calls, paperwork, and coordination, but she also makes time to connect personally with students and staff. One of her favorite parts of the day is one that she volunteered for - supervising early-arriving students in the morning, giving her a chance to build relationships and get to know them.

She has also created a welcoming space within her office—not just for students, but for teachers as well. “I keep my door open, a refrigerator filled with water, and sweet and salty snacks are always stocked,” she said. “Sometimes teachers just need a place to come in, take a deep breath, and regroup for a few minutes.”

Kristy credits the Meridian staff and administration for helping her adjust to her new role. “They’ve been very supportive,” she said. “It’s a team effort.”

Her vision for Meridian is grounded in service and connection. “I want families to know they can reach out anytime,” she said. “Everyone is welcome. We’re here to help.”

For families navigating educational services, having someone who listens, explains, and advocates can make all the difference. Kristy takes that responsibility seriously, knowing that her work helps shape students’ futures.

Each day brings new challenges and opportunities, but she approaches both with the same mindset: stay positive, stay focused, and keep students at the center of every decision.