Kelly began teaching in 2006, and from the very start, she knew building a classroom where everyone cared about each other was crucial. In many ways, she was a mindfulness teacher before she even realized it. The essence of empathy, caring about others, and connecting deeply with people isn't something that can be taught in a single lesson. It requires purposeful, intentional effort over time to connect students to themselves and to each other.

In her classroom, this intentional community and connection building made it stand apart from all the others on campus. Kelly knew what she wanted for her students: a space where they felt cared for and where they cared for each other. She believed that one of the biggest keys to learning is getting kids to care about themselves and each other. Kids who care are more willing and able to learn.

To teach her students to care about themselves and others, Kelly had to intentionally interact with them. This meant being mindful of her own feelings, judgments, thoughts, and behaviors, allowing her to connect even deeper with her students during both challenging and joyful moments.

When Kelly became a parent in 2011, she realized that emotional intelligence and empathy were the most important gifts she could give her child. Success in life is deeply rooted in the relationships we build, the connections we make, and the impact we have on others and the world around us.

In 2016, Kelly became a registered yoga teacher, a mindfulness coach, and a certified mindful schools instructor. Additionally, she is a trauma-informed specialist in education through California State University, East Bay (CSUEB) and an emotional intelligence coach. Her journey continues as she strives to bring mindfulness and emotional intelligence to every aspect of education, helping students, teachers, families, entire schools, and communities grow and connect meaningfully.