I started teaching in California City, CA, in 1995. The next year I packed my car and moved to Las Vegas to teach. It's hard to believe I've been teaching for 30 years. This year will be my last year teaching. I am going to retire in May 2026!

I have taught first, second, third, and fourth grades. I was also a Reading & Math Intervention Specialist for a year.  2025-2026 is my 17th year as a Gifted and Talented Education Specialist.

In addition to being a CCSD teacher, for the past 15 years I have been a part-time instructor for Nevada State University's School of Education. I teach social studies classes for pre-service teachers.

I went to college at the University of Southern California and transferred to Cal State Northridge where I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Child Development. I earned my teaching credential at Cal State Bakersfield and my Master of Education degree from Lesley University.

Since 2005 I have been a National Board Certified Teacher (Early Childhood Generalist). As a National Board Certified Teacher I am reflective and thoughtful about teaching. I am constantly trying to improve how I teach so I can help my students grow and develop to their fullest potential.

There are lots of things I like about being a GATE Specialist. These are the first three things that come to mind... 

1. 1. 1. 1.  GATE kids keep me on my toes.

         2.  We do a lot of fun projects in GATE.

         3.  I work with some really, really, really awesome kids in my GATE program!

I teach at Thiriot Elementary School in Las Vegas, NV.  The contact information is listed at the bottom of this web page. My email address is powelke@nv.ccsd.net.