Every teacher’s journey is different, and sometimes, the path to the classroom takes unexpected turns. In Part 1 of this three-part series, Kelsie Thomas—a middle school art teacher—shares how her background in art, sports, and leadership led her to discover her true passion for teaching. While she once thought her future was in design and marketing, she soon realized that shaping young minds was the Role of a Lifetime she was meant for.
I grew up in New Baltimore, Michigan, a tight-knit community where school spirit and involvement were highly valued. I was active in school, serving as an art mentor, captain of both the swim and basketball teams, as well as student council leadership. I was honored to win “Most Involved”, “Female Athlete Of The Year” and Most School Spirit” awards. Being involved in my younger school years played a huge role in who I am today.
After high school, I went on to Saginaw Valley State University, where I was awarded a four-year scholarship for the swim team. While I always had a love for school, my true passion was in both sports and creativity. I pursued a degree in graphic design and marketing, seeking a career that blended my interests. During college, I gained valuable experience through internships, including working as a social media creator at kids’ camps in Hawaii and for the Detroit Lions’ youth programs.
As I was finishing my last college class, I received a call from my alma mater’s athletic director, who informed me that they were looking for a head varsity swim coach for the girls’ team. Without hesitation, I said yes. Coaching the team I once swam for was a monumental experience in my journey as a leader. It provided me with a fresh perspective and deepened my understanding of leadership, allowing me to connect with my students and athletes in a whole new way.
My experiences in my roles as coach, teammate and intern made me realize that my real calling was in education. The joy of working with kids, watching them grow, and the impact I could have on their lives inspired me to pursue teaching as a way to blend my love for creativity, sports, and personal growth into something meaningful.
Being part of a team played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue teaching. I always viewed the classroom as working together on a team. Being named captain at a young age was a tremendous honor, as it allowed me to serve as a role model—not only academically and athletically but also personally. The responsibility of leading others sparked my passion for guiding and inspiring others, which ultimately influenced my career path.
After college, I was looking for a job and decided to substitute teach in my hometown school district. I knew this was going to be a way to get my foot in the door as an educator and start my new career path. The experience ended up being incredibly inspiring. It was so fulfilling to work alongside the teachers who once shaped my own education, and now, being able to call them my coworkers truly solidified my decision to pursue teaching.
Growing up, I loved playing school and would actually spend my birthday money on school supplies, always dreaming of becoming a teacher. However, when I went to college, I felt drawn to the creative field of graphic design and marketing. It was a natural path at the time, but deep down, I always knew teaching was where my heart truly belonged, I just didn’t know where and when to start.
When I discovered the “Teachers of Tomorrow” program, I was immediately filled with excitement and a sense of purpose. The opportunity to pursue a career in teaching felt like a perfect fit, especially when I realized that I could teach my true passion—art. The idea of sharing my love for creativity with students and inspiring them to explore their own artistic abilities was incredibly fulfilling. It felt like the perfect way to combine my enthusiasm for teaching with my deep-rooted passion for art. I couldn’t wait to dive into the program and begin the journey of shaping the next generation of artists.
As an art teacher, I’m excited to share my love for creativity with my students and to foster a space where they can express themselves through art. Additionally, I’m thrilled to bring my coaching experience into the classroom. Coaching swim and basketball has given me the opportunity to connect with students on another level, encouraging both their academic and personal growth.
The turning point for me came when the community in my hometown recognized my potential as a leader in the classroom. Their encouragement and belief in me affirmed that teaching was my true calling, and I knew then that this was the career path where I could make the greatest impact.
Becoming a teacher has profoundly shaped my life, pushing me to not only better my students but also to constantly improve myself. Each day, I show up with enthusiasm, ready to give my best.
Reflecting on my own K-12 years, I always knew I wanted to return to the classroom because of how much fun and fulfillment it brought me. Now, I make it my mission to ensure my students have the same positive, enriching experience. Above all, I want them to learn kindness and the importance of making a difference in the world, because we as teachers are shaping the future.
To those considering a career in teaching: If you have the heart to put others before yourself, teaching is one of the most rewarding professions you can choose. It’s a calling that allows you to make a lasting impact on the lives of your students and in turn, grow as a person yourself. The difference you make will echo far beyond the classroom.
For Kelsie, realizing she was meant to teach was just the first step. The next challenge? Finding the right path to certification. Tune in next Tuesday for Part 2, where Kelsie shares how Teachers of Tomorrow provided the flexibility, support, and guidance she needed to turn her passion into a career—and step fully into her Role of a Lifetime.
