Staff Spotlight
In 2021-2022, we will using our Staff Spotlights to learn more about individual staff, their inspirations, and their incredible resilience in adapting to Outdoor Learning in a pandemic.
Spotlight on Kim Glover
Kim is a teacher in the Purple Room.
How did you discover Playschool?
I learned about Playschool when my oldest son was three. We had recently moved to Phoenixville, and I was on the hunt for a preschool. I had mentioned some of the things I was looking and hoping for in a school to a coworker, at the same time an art teacher overheard me and said, “Ah, sounds like you need to send him to Miss Betty’s.” I think I set up a tour the next day and the rest is history. We have since sent all four of our kids to Playschool.
Why did you decide to be a teacher?
I feel like I sort of fell into teaching. I always enjoyed being around kids and I have a total “helper” personality. Teaching was just the next step in my life's work.
What is your favorite aspect of your work in the Purple Room?
My favorite aspect of the Purple Room is being with the kids every day!
What do you love the most about Playschool's outdoor program?
Getting to be outside! It is so great to see and hear all the kids being outside allowed to just be kids, engaging in nature, playing and learning. Being outside makes everyday a new adventure. It has helped me become more flexible in my thinking and just to lean into the process more. I love the challenge of trying to figure out how to adapt curriculum to make things work. Things that you think you can do may not necessarily translate the same when you are outside.
What fun things are the children in your classroom learning about right now?
Miss Cindy and her husband have tapped a lot of the maple trees throughout the play yards. Purple friends have been enjoying helping collect the sap and it will be exciting to see the final process this week!
What are you most looking forward to in 2022?
For my family and friends to remain healthy and happy.
What are your favorite spring activities?
I love horseback riding and as it starts getting warmer out, I spend as much of my free time at the barn. Also, we are a pretty outdoorsy family and love hiking and bike riding.
Do you have any favorite children's books?
One of my favorite books to read to my children is The Salamander Room by Anne Mazer. We also enjoy anything from Julia Donaldson.
What is your favorite food?
I love to cook, so this is a tough one. I think one of my favorite foods has to be spaghetti and meatballs. It’s just a great comfort food.