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Congratulations to Kelly Strauss, our 2026 Jefferson’s Murfreesboro Teacher of the Year!

Kelly is an Academic interventionalist at Kitrell Elementary.

We can’t think of a better way to tell you what makes her an incredible teacher than by sharing directly from her nominators:

“Kelly has a great deal of patience with her students. It takes a special person to teach kindergarten and first grade. I think her favorite thing is teaching students to read and to do basic math. These are foundational skills needed for the rest of your life and she loves to share in the students’ success with these goals. Teaching intervention has allowed her to expand to working with more grade levels. She patiently uses repetition and love to be certain her students accomplish the missing skills they need to continue to be successful in upper grades. She celebrates each skill milestone that her students achieve.”

Kelly shared, “Being a teacher, especially at Kittrell, has meant so much to me. I love being a Blue Devil. Being in a smaller community school has allowed me to personally get to know the staff, families and community and form lifelong friendships that I treasure. In the 28 years here, I have had many roles beyond a teacher. I have held many leadership and coaching positions and started a number of traditions/events here at Kittrell. What I love most about being a teacher is watching a student reach a goal either in Reading or Math that they thought was not possible. I enjoy building those personal relationships with the students. I have enjoyed following so many of my former students and watching what they have been able to accomplish in their lives as adults. I have also had the awesome opportunity to teach children of former students. Teaching is truly a lifetime commitment; you never stop caring for the students you interact with.”

Please join us in congratulating Kelly Strauss for her incredible impact in the classroom and beyond! 

“Teacher of the year” hall of fame

Every year, in honor of National Teachers Day, Jefferson’s Murfreesboro recognizes a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students and who not only educate the next generation but bring together the community and nurture a culture of learning. These teachers have made an impact on their students lives and have been nominated by school and community members.

“Coach of the year” hall of fame

Every year, in honor of National Coaches’ Day, Jefferson’s Murfreesboro recognizes a coach who goes above and beyond for their athletes and their community. These coaches have made an impact on their players’ lives on and off the field and have been nominated by school and community members.