Kristen Harrell
Sixth Grade Mathematics Teacher
Bachelor’s Degree, Special Education, Georgia Southern University; Master’s Degree, Curriculum and Instruction, Georgia Southern University
Ms. Harrell has known she wanted to be a teacher since she was six years old. “My first-grade teacher helped grow my love of learning,” she says. “I knew I wanted to do that for my students as well.” Ms. Harrell understands that math can be particularly challenging for some students. It’s “not a subject that is loved by all,” she says, which is why helping students overcomes those challenges is so satisfying – “the most rewarding part of my work at Georgia Connections Academy.”
Homegrown: From Student to Teacher
Ms. Harrell is not only a teacher at Georgia Connections Academy; she is a graduate of the school. She has a deep understanding of the many benefits of the online learning environment. “I love being able to build relationships with my students,” she says.
With Live Lessons®, with phone calls, and with virtual meetings, Georgia Connections Academy offers so many opportunities for teachers to work one-on-one with students, opportunities that typically aren’t found in brick-and-mortar classroom. “My favorite thing about teaching online,” Ms. Harrell says, “is the flexibility it provides to meet with students [anytime] they need help.”
For Ms. Harrell, learning has come full circle. “During my 5 years at Georgia Connections Academy as a student, I had teachers that [taught] me the skills I needed to be successful in college and my career,” she says. “I hope to have the same impact on the students enrolled in my class.”
Anything Outdoors
When she isn’t busy inspiring students, Ms. Harrell is busy with all kinds of outdoor activities. She enjoys hiking, camping, kayaking, going to the beach, and even riding ATVs. “Most of the time my dogs will tag along on those adventures too!” she says. When the weather isn’t cooperating, or she just needs to take it down a notch, Ms. Harrell enjoys playing piano, reading, and spending time with family and friends.