Kelly Wardle: I Am a Rural Teacher Regional Advocate, Willow Springs, MO

Having grown up in the small rural community of Lone Jack, Missouri, Kelly Wardle knew early on that she would always reside a rural area. After spending 22 years in human resources, Kelly decided to pursue her dream of becoming a rural school-teacher. Kelly returned to college receiving her teaching certification to pursue the goal of becoming a first grade teacher, which she did for 5 years. During this time, Kelly continued her education and received her Masters in Literacy in December 2018. Kelly is currently working in the rural community of Willow Springs as a middle school reading interventionist for the Willow Springs R-IV District.