For 25 years, Mr. Kinsley has worked in the education field. In all those 25 years, his favorite grade to teach has been 6th-grade math.  How perfect that his last year here at Sayre Area School District is exactly what and where he is teaching. 

“My favorite thing about teaching is the thrill on the kids' faces when they get the problem correct,” said Mr. Kinsley.

Mr. Kinsley has worked at IBM (International Business Machines) before but decided to become a teacher because he likes working with kids. "I wanted to make a difference in their lives," he said. "I wanted to help them learn and grow, and I felt that teaching was the best way." His advice for other teachers is to be patient and always try different methods. "Every student is different, and what works for one may not work for another," he explained.

When reflecting on his career, Mr. Kinsley noted that his most memorable moment as a teacher was going on a skating field trip with the 6th grade. "It was so much fun," he said. "The kids were all laughing and having a great time, and it was a great way to bond with them outside of the classroom." When I asked him what he would miss the most about his job, he said it was the students that he commonly worked with in various other grades.

"I've had the pleasure of teaching some of these kids for multiple years, and it's been amazing to watch them grow and develop over time," he said. "I'll miss seeing them every day and being a part of their lives." As the conversation came to a close, we thanked Mr. Kinsley for his time and dedication to his students. "It's been my pleasure," he said. "I love what I do, and I wouldn't want to do anything else."

November: Second Grader, Ezri-lynn Cole

"Art is very calming. My favorite thing to draw his hearts. They make me happy," said Ezri-lynn.

December: Fourth Grader, Addison Clark

"Mrs. Prescott inspires me to create new art and is always teaching me new things. I enjoy art because it makes me feel relaxed," said Addison.

November: Ms. Higley

December: Mrs. Sutryk

1. Why did you become a teacher?

Ms. Higley- "I enjoy working with children and the feeling of making a difference in their lives."

Mrs. Sutryk- “When I was young, I taught gymnastics and swimming lessons at a camp for children and loved it. I knew then that teaching would be my career.”

2. What is something interesting about yourself?

Ms. Higley- "I played two division sports in college." 

Mrs. Sutryk- “My three daughters are currently seniors and will graduate in 2024. One from graduate school, one undergraduate, and one from high school.” 

3. What is your favorite thing about school?

Ms. Higley- "I love coming because of the children and getting the chance to teach them and learn from them as well."

Mrs. Sutryk- “I love how my class becomes like a family each year.”