Tracy Kirts, Employee of the Year (Secondary)
Why did you choose to work in education/at a school?
I have always enjoyed working with people/kids/students, of any age. Being a mother of two school children, it allowed me to go to their sporting events, field trips and have the same breaks.
What brought you to Elkhart Community Schools?
I was the scanning coordinator at Martins Supermarkets (16.5 years of employment) and I needed to find something that was more compatible to our children’s schedules. It was a natural fit. I love what I do.
How long have you worked at ECS? Your school?
Finishing up my 18th year at EACC.
Any touching work-related stories you’d like to share?
When I helped a student read/write to pass the read portion of the ISTEP. He thanked me and gave me a magnet that says, “The art of being kind is all the world needs.” That magnet has been on my white board every since he gave it to me. A daily reminder that we as educators can/do make a difference in students lives daily.
We talk about our students finding their passions – what are your passions?
I love to cook, walk the dogs, work with students, and time with my family.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Cooking out, going to ND Girls Basketball Games – Go Irish!!, Watching my husband boat race in the US Title Series – Pro Racing Series during the summer months and working out in the yard.
We have a strong focus on literacy at the district – what are you currently reading?
I love to cook and I read/research new recipes often.