By Lauren Johnson

Troy Elementary School teacher Kelly Roberts is now officially a Doctor of Education.

Roberts, a second-grade general educator at TES, recently earned her degree, from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with a concentration in Instructional Leadership. Roberts has 29 years of experience as a teacher.

Originally from Atmore, Alabama, she came to Troy to attend college, and in 1990 she graduated from Troy State University with a Bachelor of Science and Elementary Education. In 1993, she received her Master’s in Science and Elementary Education, and went back in 2016 graduating from Troy University with a certification in Instructional Leadership in Administration.

“As a Troy University alumna, I’m proud to achieve my doctorate degree in the field of education,” Roberts said. “Regardless of your age, whether you’re an elementary ed. student, a high school graduate, or a veteran teacher, like myself, I encourage others to follow their bliss and go forth confidently in the direction of your dreams…until you catch them.”

Early on, Roberts’ parents, Dottie and John Padgett, instilled the importance of education in her life. “My mother said that your education is something that no one can ever take away from you.”

Roberts father was an educator, both her parents were educated, and they were huge advocates of furthering one’s education and advancing one’s degree.

Following her passion and love of learning, Roberts was able to earn her doctorate at Nova Southeastern University within 2 and a half years with support. “I am grateful for the support and encouragement from my family, my husband Lin Roberts, TCS superintendent Dr. Lee Hicks, TES administrators and faculty, and friends,” said Roberts. “I had a wonderful team who supported me along the journey.”

Like any journey, Roberts explained that hers didn’t come without obstacles.

“Often setbacks or life circumstances get in the way of achieving goals; however, the road to success is not a straight path, success is a result of hard work, self-discipline, determination, and sacrifices along the way,” Robert said.

Roberts is eager to apply her knowledge of effective teaching practices and instructional leadership practices for advancements in education. “I’m looking forward to providing high quality educational opportunities for the students of Troy, thus I’m striving to empower future leaders and future teachers in education,” she said.

Roberts believes that education will open a wide range of possibilities and she feels blessed to have the opportunity to educate young minds and in turn pass on wisdom.

“I realize that their future is bright, and the world is wide open for them to follow their dreams and achieve their goals,” she said. Knowing that the children have endless opportunities and possibilities, she passes on the importance for and love of learning.

Roberts describes teaching students as something that comes full circle. While she strives to inspire them and push them to be the best they can be, they in turn do the same for her.

“They inspire me to be a better person and a better teacher, to find new ways to teach, look at new perspectives, and new views.”

Roberts loves teaching kids to read for the first time and their excitement and passion for learning. One of her favorite things about teaching is when everything comes together for a child.

“As I reflect on my personal achievement, I embrace the opportunity to make valuable contributions to the well-being of others in the community,” she said. “I hope to use my experience and knowledge to inspire others to set personal goals, to follow their passion, and stay focused along the path to success.”

“The end of one journey is the beginning of another,” she said, “and I’m excited to make a positive impact in the lives of others in our community.”