Mrs. Kelly Collins grew up working cattle on a farm in Springdale, AR, competed in barrel racing and goat tying as part of the state rodeo team in high school, and even won the title of Miss Rodeo Arkansas. Now, she is a veteran science teacher with 25 years experience.

From the University of Arkansas, Mrs. Collins earned two master’s degrees: one in education and one in English as a Second Language (ESL). In between earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology and attending graduate school, Mrs. Collins also studied physical therapy at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.

Mrs. Shinall, her 8th grade science teacher, inspired Mrs. Collins to become a science teacher.

“She loved Science and had such a passion for what she did,” Mrs. Collins said. “It made me love Science that much more.”

Before coming here, Mrs. Collins taught 10th grade Biology, 11th & 12th grade Anatomy & Physiology at Har-Ber High School in Springdale. She also taught medical terminology, medical procedures, Chemistry and Environmental Science. One thing that Mrs. Collins likes about being here is the smaller school environment.

“Har-Ber High had 2,800 students in grades 10-12,” Mrs. Collins said.

Even with fewer students in the hallways between classes, Mrs. Collins has noticed one big difference in moving down to middle school.

“My biggest challenge has been learning how to adapt to how an 8th grade scholar thinks and feels versus older high school students,” Mrs. Collins said. “I didn’t think there would be that big of a difference in the age group but there is!”

When she is not in the classroom, Mrs. Collins loves going for walks around the Arkansas River, hiking on Mount Magazine, and spending time outdoors with her husband Anthony.

“He has a family farm in Paris, AR, with a great pond for fishing,” Mrs. Collins said. “Going there and just hanging out is the best!”