For 23 years, Jami Kampwerth has been a constant presence in the lives of Vandalia’s youngest learners, shaping the educational foundation of generations of students. As a kindergarten teacher at Vandalia Elementary School, Jami brings passion, creativity, and compassion to her classroom, creating an environment where every child feels seen, supported, and ready to grow.

Jami’s journey to Vandalia began in her hometown of Carlyle. After earning her teaching degree at SIU Edwardsville, she wanted to carve out her own identity in a new community. In 2002, she found her place at Vandalia Schools when the district expanded its preschool program. “I didn’t know a soul in Vandalia when I started,” Jami recalls. “I was nervous, but I knew it was where I was meant to be.”

Initially teaching preschool, Jami transitioned to kindergarten after five years and found her true calling. “Kindergarten is such a transformative year,” she explains. “Some kids have never been away from their parents before, and by the end of the year, they’ve grown so much—academically, socially, and emotionally. It’s an incredible journey to be part of.”

Jami’s classroom is anything but ordinary. A self-described theatrical teacher, she believes in making learning fun and engaging. Whether it’s playing games, incorporating movement, or using creative tools like Velcro balls to teach letters, Jami is always finding new ways to keep her students excited about learning. “They think they’re just playing, but they’re learning,” she says with a smile. “By Christmas, they’ve grown so much—it’s amazing to watch.”

Over the years, Jami has noticed changes in education and the challenges students face. “When I started teaching, there was a clear sense of authority,” she says. “Today, family dynamics and technology have changed the way kids interact with adults. It’s different, but it means we have to be more intentional about creating a safe, supportive environment.” For Jami, this means being a constant in her students’ lives, someone they can rely on during the school day. “I can’t control what happens [when they aren’t here], but I can be their safe place for eight hours a day,” she says. “Here, they’re safe, fed, and having fun.”

Jami credits her success to the mentors who guided her early in her career. “I had incredible role models—Shay Tedrick, Gina Lutz, and Lori Watson,” she recalls. “They taught me so much and set the bar high for what it means to be a great teacher. Now, I’m the veteran, and I hope I’m passing on that same wisdom to the next generation.”

Collaboration is a cornerstone of Jami’s teaching philosophy. With five kindergarten teachers at Vandalia Elementary, the team works closely to align on curriculum while leaving room for individual creativity. “We’re all teaching the same lessons, but we share ideas and learn from each other,” she says. “If something doesn’t work, we’re honest about it. If something does, we share it with the group. It’s all about teamwork.”

Jami also values the leadership of her new principal, Greta Krueger, who she describes as a “connector” with a positive attitude and a gift for building relationships. “She fits right in and understands how important it is to support the team,” Jami says. “It’s a great environment to be part of.”

Reflecting on her career, Jami is proud of the impact she’s had on her students and the connections she’s made in Vandalia. “I came here as an outsider, but now this community feels like home,” she says. “I hope I’ve given my students and colleagues the same sense of support and inspiration that I’ve been lucky enough to receive.”

Jami Kampwerth’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and the belief that every child deserves a safe, joyful place to learn. Through her passion and creativity, she’s not only preparing her students for first grade but also leaving an indelible mark on the Vandalia community.