Hi! I'm Mrs. Kelley.
I'm thrilled to be your teacher for 2nd Grade.
Phone: (623) 523-8750
karyn.kelley@dysart.org
Shopping: Amazon, Target
Fast Food: Cafe Rio, Chipotle, Jersey Mikes
Restaurants: Cheesecake Factory, Manuels
Dessert: Nothing Bundt Cake, cheesecake
Color: Pink, Navy Blue, B&W
Flower: Daisy
Candy: Junior Mints, Andes Mints, Peanut M&M's, Raisinets, Snickers, gummy candies
Snacks: fresh berries, Fruit, Protein anything/trail mix, beef jerky, nuts, fresh air popped popcorn
Drink: Ultima Electrolytes, Fairlife Chocolate Milk
Fav. Animals: Tiger, dog(golden retriever), hummingbird, butterfly, eagle
Hobbies: Outdoor Recreation, Gardening, Photography, Hiking, kayaking, Reading, Crafting/sewing/quilting
Something interesting about me:
I read 28 books this summer.
I was born on my grandfathers birthday.
Teaching is both my profession and my calling. I hold a degree in Psychology, a second degree in Elementary Education, and a Master’s in Mental Health and Wellness with an emphasis in Family Dynamics. I am K–5 Literacy Endorsed through the Arizona Department of Education and trained in LETRS®, grounded in the science of reading. This training allows me to provide explicit, research-based instruction while also supporting the social and emotional growth that children need in order to truly thrive.
In our classroom, you will find strong routines, clear expectations, and a calm, structured environment where students feel safe to take risks and grow. I believe children rise to high expectations when they are supported with patience, consistency, and encouragement. My goal is always to build confident readers, capable mathematicians, and kind, responsible young people.
I have had the privilege of serving as a team lead, an achievement tutor, a strong history in public service work, advocacy for special needs and as a special needs support provider. Each role has strengthened my belief that every child can grow with the right instruction, guidance, and partnership between school and home. I use data thoughtfully, teach foundational skills explicitly, and celebrate progress every step of the way.
Outside the classroom, I am a wife, a mother, and a proud grandmother of two sweet little boys. My son currently serves in the United States Army, and my husband, an ARMY Veteran, and I own an aviation maintenance business. Life is full in the best possible way. We share our home with a Golden Retriever puppy, (Gracie). She is in training to become a therapy dog, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel,(Olivia), and even a Russian tortoise, (Clark), who once began as my classroom pet. My family keeps me grounded, grateful, and constantly reminded of what matters most.
I truly value the partnership between school and home. Your child is precious, and it is an honor to be part of their learning journey. I look forward to a year filled with growth, perseverance, and joy. Please never hesitate to reach out — we are in this together.