The seed for alumna Kerri Bell’s passion for teaching was planted at the University of Iowa College of Education, cultivating a successful lifelong career.
Before teaching various grade levels in the state of Iowa for the past 30 years, Bell’s journey began at Iowa where she received her Bachelor of Arts in elementary education in 1995.
“My undergraduate degree in elementary education provided me with the essential tools to create a nurturing, hands-on learning environment, allowing me to blend my passion for agriculture with my love for teaching,” says Bell.
She started her teaching career at St. James Elementary, where she spent two years working with preschool and fourth through sixth grade students in Washington, Iowa. Bell now teaches second grade students at Mid-Prairie East Elementary School in Kalona, Iowa, where she has spent the last 28 years of her career.
Bell’s achievements were recognized when the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation (IALF) recently presented her with the Iowa Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture award. This award celebrates educators who effectively incorporate agricultural literacy within the classroom.
As a fourth-generation farm family member of Keota, Iowa, Bell believes that incorporating National Agriculture Literacy Outcomes (NALOS) themes into her curriculum is essential. These themes help students understand the interconnectedness of agriculture, the environment, and their everyday lives.
“By weaving these themes into our lessons, I help students see agriculture as not just a profession, but a way of life that sustains our communities, shapes our economy, and feeds the world,” says Bell. “Introducing these concepts early fosters a respect for the land and the people who work it, preparing them for a more informed future.”
Bell credits her success to the UI College of Education for providing her with the solid foundation necessary to create a nurturing, hands-on learning environment for students. She believes that the experience equipped her with the tools for effective classroom management, lesson planning, and fostering a growth mindset while also deepening her appreciation for integrating real-world lessons into the classroom.
“Thanks to this education, I’ve been able to merge my passion for agriculture with my teaching, creating opportunities for my students to connect with the land, the people who grow their food, and the environmental resources that sustain our communities,” says Bell.
Bell has been able to develop her passion for teaching even further over the past three decades of her career. She believes that the most rewarding aspect of teaching is the opportunity to build meaningful, lasting relationships with students and their families. She says her passion for teaching is fueled by the opportunity to spark curiosity and inspire students to explore new ideas, especially when it comes to understanding the vital role that agriculture plays in their individual lives.
“These relationships extend far beyond the classroom, and I am fortunate to be included in their significant life events,” says Bell. “The chance to share in their personal milestones—whether it's a graduation, wedding, or another celebration – reminds me of the profound impact a teacher can have on a student’s life.”
Bell appreciates the position she has and understands the impact her role plays on the future generations to come. She hopes that aspiring teachers choose to take a similar approach to their careers.
“Always prioritize real-world connections in your lessons. Teaching isn’t just about transmitting knowledge. It’s about sparking curiosity, fostering connections, and helping students make sense of the world around them,” says Bell. “And most importantly, remember that teaching is about building relationships – your students are not just learners, they are individuals with their own unique stories, and as a teacher, you have the privilege of shaping their journey.”
