I am very excited to be in my 30th year of teaching and my 26th year at Hutchinson working with you and you 3rd graders! 

        I would like to begin by telling you a little about myself. My educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Social Science and an Elementary Teaching Certificate from the University of Northern Colorado; extensive instruction in hands-on math and science; a Masters' Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Reading and Writing from the University of Colorado at Denver; and completion of the courses required for a Colorado Principal License through the University of Colorado at Denver and Jefferson County. I have also been fortunate enough to have taught in the primary and intermediate grades. I believe these varied experiences, in and out of the classroom, will assist me in providing your children with a strong educational base.

            Away from teaching I enjoy coaching Lakewood High School’s cheer/dance squad with my daughter and reading. My favorite out of school activity is spending time with my family, especially my 5-year-old and almost 2-year-old granddaughters! Having a child, and now a grandchildren, has always reinforced my desire to be a good educator. Thus as I work with your children I keep in mind the type of high quality education that I have always wanted my family to receive and hope to provide the same in my classroom. I honestly believe that education is a vital key to all of our futures and I feel privileged to be a part of it!

            My goals this year are to help enhance your child’s positive self-concept, foster their personal sense of responsibility, and to maximize his/her academic skills. In order to reach these goals we must all work together to help provide your child with a safe and happy environment. As parents, I know that you are concerned about your children's academic and social experiences so I maintain an open line of communication policy. If at any time you have questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact me via a note or e-mail (kellie.coates@jeffco.k12.co.us). Thank you for your time, support, and interest. I am sure that we will have an outstanding year!

Sincerely,                                                                                 

Kellie J. Coates