Kennedi Ingram, preschool teacher at Germantown Baptist Learning Center, began working with children about four years ago at the start of her young adulthood. She believes it is an enriching experience and a calling to positively impact the lives of children for years to come.
“I’ve learned and grown so much. As a teacher, we assume we’re the only ones doing the teaching, but kids are teachers, too,” says this month’s outstanding teacher, Kennedi Ingram, preschool teacher at Germantown Baptist Learning Center. “You learn a lot by paying attention to them.”
Working with kids can be an enriching experience, especially if you are passionate about education and making a difference in the lives of young people. Ingram has been working with kids since she was 18, and is now 22. Ingram offers powerful insight when she suggests that children have much to offer regarding knowledge and wisdom and that, as adults, we can learn a lot from them.
For many, landing their first job can mark a significant milestone. For Ingram, that milestone was achieved when she began working at her aunt’s daycare, a place she also frequented as a child. This experience left a lasting mark on her life, shaping her both personally and professionally. This experience sparked a flame within her and helped her to realize that working with children was her true calling, and a profession she was deeply passionate about. Her time at the daycare only strengthened her passion for this profession, catalyzing her future career aspirations.
Every moment spent nurturing and educating them brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose to her life. She cherishes the opportunity to shape young minds and provide them with a safe and nurturing environment where they can learn and grow. “I love doing lots of free play/learning,” says Ingram. “Of course, we go by the curriculum, but when we have the time, I love to see where they best operate. Within that, you’re able to see where a child thrives the most.”
Ingram envisions establishing her own daycare center, reflecting her commitment to child care and education. She aspires to have the same level of fulfillment and happiness she has experienced in her profession so far and intends to keep contributing positively to children’s lives for many more years.
“Of course, there are bumps in the roads, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” Ingram says. “Seeing my kids happy motivates me. Seeing them become more open and vulnerable because they trust me keeps me going!”
The parents describe Ingram as an outstanding teacher who shines like a bright light in the lives of her students. They believe she genuinely loves and cares for them deeply and takes the time to understand each child’s unique needs and strengths to help them grow, learn, and thrive. “I have seen remarkable progress in my own child’s social skills, listening abilities, speech, and more since being under Ms. Kennedi’s care,” says a parent. “Despite being the youngest in the group, my child has flourished under Ms. Kennedi’s guidance and support.” The parents feel grateful for Ingram’s presence in their child’s life and acknowledge her as a valuable contributor to their child’s growth and well-being. They have confidence in Ingram’s capacity to maintain an unwavering commitment towards the growth and advancement of the children.
“Seeing my kids happy motivates me,” says Ingram. Spending quality time with the students, bonding through play, and fostering connections, is truly fulfilling to Ingram. When the situation calls for it, she finds herself easily slipping into a childlike mindset and sharing hearty laughs with them. “I love to laugh, and they make it easier,” says Ingram.
We want to shine a light on your child’s teacher, or even a teacher who made a difference in your life. Submit your nomination today by emailing teacher@memphisparent.com.