After working as an educational paraprofessional for nine years, Kimberley Holt is ready to take the next step in her career.
It’s a moment that was made possible by a specialized pathway provided by the Arkansas Tech University College of Education and Health.
Holt is the first graduate from an initiative designed to provide educational paraprofessionals with enhanced access to the ATU Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education. She received her degree during ATU spring commencement on Saturday, May 10.
“This pathway was a game-changer,” said Holt. “It allowed me to continue working full-time in my school district while pursuing my degree in elementary education. Being able to support my family while advancing my career was critical, and this program made that possible.”
Holt serves as a paraprofessional at Oakland Heights Elementary School in the Russellville School District.
“What I love most about teaching and working with children is witnessing those ‘aha’ moments…when a student has been struggling to grasp a concept, and suddenly, it clicks,” said Holt. “Seeing their excitement and pride when they finally understand something they’ve worked so hard on is one of the most rewarding parts of this profession.”
Holt said her two daughters motivated her to persist and complete her degree. She wanted to show them the value of education by demonstrating perseverance, even when the going got tough and completing her degree seemed impossible.
“It feels amazing,” said Holt. “All the late nights, hard work and challenges have paid off. There were moments when I doubted myself, but the encouragement from my school community kept me going. I’m incredibly proud to have reached this milestone.”
According to information in the ATU course catalog, the university’s Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education is “designed to equip future educators with the essential knowledge, skills and dispositions required to effectively teach children in grades K-6.” The catalog goes on to state that the program is “structured to address the needs of today’s students, aligning with core competencies expected of professional educators in elementary education.”
The greatest strength of Holt’s experience in the ATU elementary education program was the support she received from faculty members.
“They consistently encouraged me and helped me understand the material,” said Holt. “Another strength was being able to immediately apply what I was learning in my current role rather than waiting for an internship. That hands-on application made a huge difference in my growth and confidence as an educator.”
As her graduation weekend arrived, Holt was filled with gratitude for several other people who helped make it possible.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Arkansas Tech University for making this journey possible,” said Holt. “I am especially grateful to the Student Support Services team for their constant encouragement and guidance throughout my time in the program. Thank you for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to succeed. I also want to thank my Oakland Heights family for their unwavering support and for never letting me give up, even during the toughest moments. To my immediate family, thank you for standing by my side every step of the way. Your love and encouragement meant everything to me. I could not have achieved this milestone without all of you. I am truly grateful.”
Now that she has earned her bachelor’s degree and become a certified teacher, Holt hopes to remain in the Arkansas River Valley and continue educating elementary students.
As for what she would say to her fellow paraprofessionals considering taking the next step in their journey as educators, Holt had a simple, two-word response.
“Do it,” said Holt. “It won’t always be easy, but if you already care deeply for students as a paraprofessional, this pathway will empower you to make an even greater impact. With a teaching degree, you’ll be equipped with the tools and knowledge to support students at a higher level, and that’s worth every effort.”
The ATU paraprofessional pathway program has connected with educators in school districts such as Bentonville, Conway, Elkins, Farmington, Fort Smith, Greenland, Harrison, Lincoln, Marmaduke, Marshall, Paragould, Pocahontas, Russellville, Valley Springs and West Fork.
For more information about the paraprofessional pathway at ATU, send e-mail to coeh@atu.edu or call (479) 964-0583 (extension 2352).
Learn more about the ATU College of Education and Health at www.atu.edu/ceh.
