For more than two decades, Kelli Hale has been shaping young minds within Dallas ISD — and for nearly 20 years, Lakewood Elementary has been lucky to call her one of their own. Now teaching Kindergarten after many years in upper elementary, Kelli brings experience, heart, and joy into the classroom each day. We’re excited to spotlight this dedicated educator who believes in teaching the whole child and helping students fall in love with learning from the very beginning.

How long have you been in education? What grade levels have you taught? I have been teaching for 23 years — all in DISD! I came to Lakewood in 2006 and taught 3rd and 4th grade reading and writing for many years. I recently moved to Kindergarten and absolutely love it!

What is your teaching or leading style? My teaching style is student-centered and relationship-driven, focusing on the whole child while blending structure with warmth and encouragement. I believe young learners thrive when they feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. I meet students where they are academically and emotionally while maintaining high expectations for growth. Our classroom is a joyful place where learning is meaningful, engaging, and a lot of fun.

What is your favorite part about teaching? My favorite part of teaching is helping students learn to read and write and watching their confidence grow as they discover their voices. I love answering their endless questions and seeing their curiosity come to life each day. Being a small part of their journey is an honor I never take lightly. I strive to be a positive role model who encourages kindness, perseverance, and a love of learning.

Do you have a quote or mantra that guides you? “Teach the whole child, and the learning will follow.” This reminds me that when I nurture each child’s relationships, confidence, and unique strengths, they become more engaged, curious, and excited to learn.

What do you enjoy outside the classroom? Outside of school, I enjoy traveling abroad with my family, going to concerts, cheering on the SMU Mustangs, and reading. You’ll usually find me at a JL Long sports game for my 8th-grade son or cheering on the Woodrow musical and cheer team for my 11th-grade daughter.

Where might we run into you in the community? Some of my favorite local spots include Taco Joint, Hudson House, The Heights, MiCo, and Tallulah and Hess!

From helping young learners find their voices to creating a classroom filled with warmth and encouragement, Kelli Hale continues to make a meaningful impact at Lakewood Elementary — one joyful learning moment at a time.