GK Spotlight: Stefanie Hill

At this small town school, we build big-time pride by creating deep and lasting bonds within our community. Each month, we’ll shine a spotlight on a GK staff member or student so we can get to know each other and share what makes us #GKProud.

Spotlight: Stefanie Hill

Tell us who you are! What’s your name and where are you from: My name is Stefanie Hill. I grew up in Sycamore, but can proudly say I have now lived in Genoa longer than I did in Sycamore.

Degree type: I graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Elementary Education.

Your role at GK and which building you work in: I started at GK as the Technology Director and teaching middle school computer classes. I then taught 7th grade social studies for one year before moving on to teach 5th grade at Kingston Grade School. That was the year that the new high school was completed so 5th grade moved to the new Genoa Elementary School the next year. After 11 years of teaching 5th grade, I accepted the position as Curriculum Director and then transitioned after a year to the Kingston Elementary School Principal. I still do Curriculum — sharing the responsibility with Karen Simmons. I can say that I have worked in every building in Genoa-Kingston.

How long have you been with GK schools? This is my 21st year!

What is your favorite thing about your job? With out a doubt — my favorite part of my job is the kiddos. No matter what kind of day I am having, being with the students makes it better.

Why is education important to you? I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. The school experience is important and can play a big part in the future of our students. Have a great teacher as a student sticks with you for life — I wanted to make that kind of difference.

Looking at the GK school community as a whole, what makes you feel the most #GKProud? The GK school community makes me the most proud when I see how everyone watches out for each other. Our students are everyone’s students. The saying “it takes a village to raise a child” is evident here in the GK community.

What do you like to do when you’re not working? Any unique hobbies or interests? I am a voracious reader. I read all of the time.

Tell us an interesting or little-known fact about yourself: My father attended Kingston School (through 8th grade, he was a student when the building caught fire), my grandfather (his father) drove the bus and was the custodian at Kingston School, where now I am the principal.