Hallie, in her third year of teaching at Momence Elementary School, has already earned a reputation for nurturing not just academic skills but the whole child. Her classroom hums with the controlled chaos of young learners exploring the world—discovering numbers, letters, friendships, and themselves.

For Hallie, the kindergarten year is transformative. “You see so much maturity in such a short time,” she says. “From the moment they walk in the door in August to the day they’re ready to move to first grade in May, it’s almost like watching them become new people right in front of you.”

Kindergarten, as Hallie describes it, is a delicate balancing act. “You don’t get to pick and choose which students come through your door,” she explains with a smile. “Every single one is different, with unique abilities, challenges, and needs. It’s like opening a mystery box. You just have to figure out what’s inside and go from there.”

To meet those diverse needs, Hallie relies on an adaptive, data-driven approach. Her system, color-coding students’ progress, allows her to tailor lessons to each child’s specific stage of development. “One student might need help with counting and cardinality, while another is ready to compare quantities,” she says. “It’s all about meeting them where they are and helping them climb their own ladder of progress.”

But academic growth is only part of the picture. Hallie emphasizes the importance of social and emotional learning, motor skills, and communication. She speaks with admiration about the “all-hands-on-deck” approach that makes this possible at Momence.

“Every adult in this building plays a role,” she says. “From the specials teachers in PE, music, and STEM to the secretaries and custodians they greet every day, these kids are surrounded by people who care. It’s not just about what happens in my classroom; it’s about the whole environment they’re immersed in.”

Hallie’s approach is deeply personal, rooted in her own reflections and a commitment to self-improvement. “I used to worry when a lesson didn’t go perfectly for every student,” she admits. “But I’ve learned to embrace their individuality. It’s not about getting them all to the same place at the same time—it’s about understanding where they are and helping them move forward.”

Watching her students grow isn’t just rewarding; it’s emotional. “When they leave for first grade, I always get a little teary-eyed,” Hallie confesses. “You’ve poured so much into them, and seeing how far they’ve come is incredibly special. It’s hard not to feel proud.”

As Hallie reflects on her work, she sees it as part of a larger symphony. “Each child’s journey is unique, like a melody that builds as they grow. And every teacher, every staff member, plays a part in making that melody come together. It’s beautiful to see.”

Teaching kindergarten for Hallie isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. And for the families of Momence, her passion and dedication ensure that every child leaves her classroom not only ready for first grade but ready for a lifetime of learning.