By Elijah Aston

Oro Grande Classical Academy soars for success by fostering an environment where students can comfortably grow academically and personally. Kim Jaynes has created this environment within her classroom and within the school. 

Jaynes, kindergarten teacher, has taught at Oro Grande Classical Academy for 13 years, showing her dedication to helping students be the best that they can be.

Jaynes began teaching at Oro Grande because one of her children attended Oro Grande and she admired the school from a parent standpoint. Her admiration for the school has only grown as a teacher.

Jaynes has achieved the honor of receiving the Sherry Dailey Golden Apple Award. This, along with being the Oro Grande Classical Academy Teacher of the Year, shows what an exemplary teacher she is.

Kim Jaynes helps students gain new skills. Elijah Aston/RiverScene

The best moments of teaching are the moments where you can see a student learn a new skill, according to Jaynes.

Jaynes said, “I feel so fulfilled when a student realizes they have achieved something they had previously been struggling to learn,” when asked about her favorite teaching moments.

 Jaynes’ excitement to see genuine growth in her students shows her commitment to making students leave her class with more skills and achievements than when they entered.

Oro Grande Classical Academy principal, Christina Barton, chose Jaynes to be their teacher spotlight because she shows the virtues that the Oro Grande staff teaches their students to carry with them.