Meet the Teacher

Hello First Grade Family and Friends!  

My name is Kiernan Dunham (Dun-um) and I am so excited to be your child's First Grade teacher! This is my second year at Middleton Elementary. Last year I taught 4th grade at Middleton.  Prior to coming to Middleton Elementary school, I taught 1st grade, for 4 years, at Northside Catholic Academy in Chicago. 

I grew up in Chicago and have two younger brothers, Aidan and Declan. I have wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl and would play school with my dolls and had a white board in my room.  I went to Loyola Academy for high school and attended Saint Mary's University of Winona, Minnesota.  I graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor's of Arts in Elementary Education and received a Master's Degree in Literacy Education from Northeastern Illinois University in May of 2024. 

I love teaching beginning reading and phonics. 1st graders have a love for learning and we will explore all areas of learning.  My goal, as an educator, is to create kind, caring, and inclusive children.   

When I am not teaching I love spending time with my family and friends. I have two little nieces who are a joy to be around. I enjoy trying out new different recipes from my Disney cookbooks. One of my favorite places to visit is Walt Disney World in Florida. 

Here are some fun facts about myself: 

Food: Tacos

Hobby: Cooking

Flower: Hydrangeas

Season: Winter or Summer

Color: Pink and light blue!

Animal: Giraffe

Disney Character: Ariel

Author: Laura Ingalls Wilder

Book Series: Little House on the Prairie 

Accessories: Minnie Mouse Ears and Fun Earrings!

I look forward to the magical memories we are going to make this year!