Hello! Welcome to kindergarten...my name is Mrs. Urke. I am so excited to welcome you to the Columbia school district and my classroom. I started in the district and spent many years in the preschool setting before making the move to Kindergarten. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from SIUE and currently working on my Masters Degree from SIUE as well.

I also live in Columbia with my husband, two boys, our dog (June) and 12 chickens. My two sweet boys, Henry and Oliver, attend school here in Columbia just as I did...we are EAGLES all the way! In my free time I love to run/exercise, watch my boys play sports and hang out with my family and friends. Both my boys are goalies so they keep my mom nerves on high during soccer games for sure! I am also a huge believer in coffee and snacks! I look for to getting to meet your family and getting to know your kiddo this year!