Newkirk native back home to teach

By ADAM CATLIN
NHJ Editor

With the first of school coming up on Aug. 13, Emalee Kelly is one of the many new teachers in the Newkirk School District who are finalizing their classroom for the new year. Kelly will be teaching 6th and 7th grade Math in the Newkirk Middle School.
Newkirk native Kelly is right back at home after graduating from Newkirk High School in 2022 and going on to her Associates in Science from Northern Oklahoma College in 2024 and her Bachelor’s of University Studies from Oklahoma State University earlier this year.
Last week, Kelly took time out from her preparations to talk about the upcoming school year at what will be her first teaching position.
“I am honored to return to Newkirk and have the opportunity to give back to the community that has given so much to me,” Kelly said. “I was fortunate to have teachers, mentors, and community members who supported and encouraged me throughout my education. I am grateful for the chance to now serve the students and families of Newkirk.”
Kelly said she is most looking forward to meeting her students and learning and growing alongside them as a first year teacher, and to learn as much from her students as they learn from her.
She was very enthusiastic as she added how grateful she is for the opportunity to return to her hometown. “I can’t wait to meet my students and make math a fun and engaging experience this school year.”
As Kelly is preparing her classroom, she said she is working to gather supplies that will help create a positive learning environment.
“I’ve put together an Amazon Classroom Wishlist, and if anyone would like to help support my students and my classroom, I would be so thankful. Every item, big or small, will make a difference and is greatly appreciated.”
Amazon Classroom Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/1MFWU4QPNQ3G6?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_ggr-subnav-share_TP0RKT03XK7ASV8ZFJCQ&language=en-US