“I’m part of something bigger than myself.” – Canyon Elementary’s Teacher of the Year

For Kennedy Fielding, school is a garden where connections are grown. As this year’s Teacher of the Year for Canyon Elementary, she is being recognized for cultivating a garden of fifth-graders who, in her words, learn to “trust each other and work together, who can laugh, but also be serious.” She wants them to love learning. “But more importantly,” she adds, “I want them to love learning together.” 

This focus on the collective "we" is felt throughout the school. Principal Holly Corbridge notes that Fielding’s leadership style is defined by this outward-facing positivity. “Kennedy has a remarkable ability to make every student feel seen, valued, and capable," Corbridge shared. "Her impact reaches far beyond her classroom and helps make Canyon Elementary a place where students and staff alike feel supported.”

This deep-seated need to build a supportive environment stems from Fielding’s own journey as a student. She credits her success to the educators who saw her potential before she did.

“Seeing how dedicated teachers supported and encouraged me shaped my understanding of what a teacher can be,” she reflected. Following in the example of those educators, Fielding strives to be a strength for her fifth-graders, helping them navigate obstacles both in and out of the classroom.

Her desire to help students reach their potential is more than a pleasant sentiment. Fielding advocates for her students every day. As Principal Corbridge shared, “Her fifth-graders love to be in her classroom. Kids who normally wouldn’t want to be there want to come to Kennedy’s class.”

“She doesn’t just teach lessons,” a colleague agreed. “She teaches kids. Every day. She loves them. She looks for things they need, and she helps them feel like they belong.”

One parent got emotional while describing Fielding’s impact. “She changed the way my son viewed school,” she said. “She helped him build his confidence and see his strengths. We will forever be grateful.

Another colleague put it quite simply. “We love Kennedy. She is the picture of grace. She is positive, caring, and kind. She is just amazing.”

For her part, Fielding humbly insists that she is simply part of a great community. “There’s nothing better than feeling like you belong to something bigger than yourself,” she shared. “And that’s what I feel as a teacher: I’m part of something bigger than myself.”