Lansing USD469 Employee Spotlight: Kelly Faulk, Parents as Teachers Coordinator and MS Cheerleading Coach
Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of our district. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Kelly Faulk, Parents as Teachers Coordinator & MS Cheerleading Coach
Question: How long have you worked for Lansing USD469?
Answer: 13 years
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I am the proud Mom of three lovely adult daughters,Savannah Jane, Riley, and Peyton, all Lansing graduates. I have been married to my best friend, David, for 30 years in May. We came to Lansing with the military in 2011 and have made Lansing our home. I am a Licensed Social Worker. My role in the district is the Coordinator of USD 469 Parents as Teachers as well as the Middle School Cheer Coach. I adore both of these roles in the district.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: All families and students enrolled in Parents as Teachers set goals. When I am able to assist with positive outcomes and growth for the student and/or the family it is beyond exciting. I also manage a team of three Parent Educators. Being able to support the Parent Educators so they are capable of helping families and students with any issues that may arise is an honor.
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: I am a deeply rooted Texan but I was actually born in Kansas City. I only lived here three days before moving back in 2011.
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: The Parents as Teachers staff served the families of USD 469 with professionalism and kindness. Parents as Teachers National Center in 2019 required all programs to complete a five year quality study. Our team was able to earn the top award of Blue Ribbon status.This makes USD 469 one of the best programs not only in the United States but also out of seven countries.
The middle school cheerleaders would tell me, I can’t or I’m afraid. We changed the teams’ answer to I’ll try, Coach. After we changed from 'I can’t' to 'I’ll try,' the girls were hitting harder stunts, they were physically stronger, and they were sharper. I saw confidence improve and just an overall positive environment for these girls.
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: I travel a couple times each month. I am visiting my two girls who don't live in the KC area. I love to read books set in the South. I am a Southerner and miss the food and culture. I love to cook and try new restaurants.
Question: What piece of advice would you like to offer to students to help them succeed and make the most of their educational journey?
Answer: We are all capable. Never listen to self doubt. My mother would always say, " Can't never did." Those are words to live by. You can if you only try.