Hi there, friend!
I’m so glad you’re here! I’m Kelsey, the teacher behind Happy Hearts in 1st!
I taught first grade for 6 years and teaching truly makes my heart happy! I’m passionate about sharing the classroom routines and teaching ideas that helped make my classroom my happy place!
My Story
I graduated from Xavier University in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and started my first year as a 1st grade teacher.
Like many first year teachers I spent HOURS planning and prepping and trying to make everything perfect for my students. By the end of the year I was BURNT OUT and knew something needed to change.
After that, I started finding ways to cut back on work hours and streamline. I set up routines and structures that helped our day run smoothly and saved me so much time and energy!
I found myself being more productive, less stressed, and most importantly, a BETTER teacher for my students!
I also began implementing a guided math structure and fell in LOVE! Teaching math became my favorite part of the day. I was amazed by my students’ growth and most importantly, they loved math too!
Now, I love sharing my ideas and helping teachers to transform their classrooms and create engaging and effective math experiences for ALL students.
You’re in the right place if you want to:
- Manage your classroom with systems and routines to save you time and energy
- Implement a guided math structure in your classroom
- Learn about all things centers and small groups to maximize your students’ growth and engagement
Meet my Family
I’m married to my best friend Tyler and I love figuring out life with him! I’m a mama to Charlotte who just turned 3 and Maverick who is 1! They make everything brighter, and I am so lucky to watch them grow! Two under two was a wild ride, and I am so grateful for every second I get to spend with them!
I’m blessed to be able to stay at home with them, and although I miss the classroom, I know these years will be short and they are only tiny once, so I am soaking in every snuggle!
During the early hours of the morning while both babies are still in bed, you can find me with an oat milk latte working on Happy Hearts in 1st! I pour my heart into everything I create, and I’m so grateful to support you on your teaching journey!
Thanks for being here, teacher friend! I hope you stay awhile and introduce yourself! My goal is to provide you with tips, inspiration, and ideas to create a classroom filled with happy hearts!