
Introduction for an Ambivert
Story-weaver. Inspirer. Teacher. Speaker. Provoker.
How do you sum up who you are and all the pieces that have made you whole? …and touting yourself in a bio is not my forte. But I ascribe to the descriptors above to best tell my most recent incarnation- and I don’t mean that literally, but I don’t judge you if you do. Here we go; we’ve only just met and I’m already stepping on toes. (My inner Sally Field is hoping you’ll bear with me just a little longer.)
I, Linda Klein, am a story-weaver, kind of like a storyteller, but I don’t have to remember all the details… and I am told an inspirer so I’ll go with that one, a proven educator, an up-and-coming speaker, and, like that itch you can’t quite reach, a provoker- who tries to use her powers for the good… from America’s Heartland, sometimes it’s Wichita my birthplace, sometimes it’s Kansas City where I reside, and most of the time it’s Dallas that I lie about simply because it’s more believable as a six-foot tall blonde in LOVE with the Cowboys- and the city.
I’ve spent 20+ years educating minds and hearts, in districts from California, Iowa, Kansas, Illinois, and Missouri (working with students from ages five to adult), which has only reinforced my belief that what each individual wants (needs!) is to be seen and valued for who they are, and age and status is of no consequence. And when that happens, possibility opens all doors.
My most recent role has been to introduce middle schoolers (Hey guys! Pay attention! Pre-pubescent teens with raging hormones who must have stock in Axe body spray!) to the power of the written word through non-fiction and literature in ELA when an entry extends beyond 140 characters. And to help them want to choose the book over the movie.
I was also selected (kind of by default initially, but then they kept me around) to serve on a collaborative committee that helped effect change and impact directly the quality of the work environment, health and well being, and benefits for all district employees with tremendous success. It was here that I was afforded the opportunity to see the moving parts of an organization in play and how truly battles can be won (or lost!) depending on the commitment of the members and the courage and vulnerability of its leaders. There were great gains despite times of real hardship because there were leaders who inspired collaboration at every level. I had a front row seat and it was here that I expanded professionally beyond the classroom in ways I’d never dreamed. You want to talk health care options, I’m your girl!
I have also had the privilege of working with the Northland Coalition with businesses in partnership with local schools in the North Kansas City area bringing authentic learning experiences into the classroom and preparing students for life in the business sector. When a student asks, ‘Why do I need to know this?’ it’s wonderful to show them exactly how to apply it. And to have them use that information and those skill sets now. And you ARE going to need to know homophones, so pay attention.
Out of one of those partnerships, my students and their families were invited to connect with members of WWII Honor Flights on an ongoing basis; and that expanded into Voices of a Generation, a unique program inviting veterans into schools to share their stories.
I am currently embracing an opportunity to decide what I’d like to be when I grow up on this one year leave from the classroom. The Universe has been conspiring in my favor and I was introduced to a woman who is changing the world… and she’s permitting me to help her share that message. I am traveling and making sure those I encounter know that they matter, and that their voices and stories deserve to be heard. The world needs them… and you.
When not super-fan cheering for the Firstborn who plays college football at Tulsa University or Netflix binging with The Beauty, I rest my (invisible) crown in Kansas City, home of the best burnt ends, the (2015) World Series Champion Royals, world renowned jazz, and some of my all-time favorite people.
Oh yeah, I have references, and people who think I know lots of stuff. They even awarded me a Masters of Education which I’m pretty proud of accomplishing- even if it did take me 20 years. But you can find all that on my LinkedIn bio if you’d prefer just facts.
I’m here just hoping to make the journey a little less bumpy for someone else and to let them know that I’m really glad they’re on this ride. What a view!