Feature Friday:
Kathryn (Knoester) Breuninger

CAMPUS: Grand Rapids Christian Elementary School Evergreen Campus

ROLE: Para-pro/Aide and Recess Monitor

How long have you been working at GRCS?

5 years

Give a brief overview of your family life, educational, and/or career history.

Kathryn is married to Ben, and they have 3 children all who attend Grand Rapids Christian Schools — Adelyn (6th), Ellie (4th), and Charlie (K).

Kathryn graduated from Christian High in 2000 and was part of the state championship basketball team in 1997. She went on to play basketball at Valparaiso University and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education in 2004. She received her Master's degree at GVSU and taught kindergarten and first grade for seven years. She now enjoys working part-time and loves to travel, hike, read, play pickleball, and spend time with family and friends.  

What is your favorite part of your job?

Building relationships with both students and colleagues.

Of all your time at GRCS, what special projects or accomplishments are you most proud of?

I love to be a part of the growth process with kids in early elementary as they learn how to become readers, independent thinkers, and problem solvers. 

What is something you learned about yourself or about teaching and learning during the pandemic and/or Off-Campus Learning?

With all the challenges and uncertainty over the past year, I have recognized the importance of being flexible and understanding. We often don't know what other people are dealing with, but relationships matter, and showing others that we care about them is so important. Teachers and students have had a lot on their minds lately, and helping kids navigate these unusual times at school is a privilege, and being a part of the staff is a blessing.  

Are there any extracurricular activities you lead or assist with?

Not currently, but you can find us at a lot of GRCS sporting events!  

Anything silly or interesting you would like to share?

My brother Ben married a Katherine, and I am a Kathryn married to a Ben. Confused?  

Share your thoughts on this year's school theme: "All Things. Hold Together."

While we have all tried to maintain our own healthy "bubbles" during covid, I have also found it uplifting and reassuring to be part of a broader school community. The sense of belonging (even when we are apart), and support (often behind a computer), has still given us a sense of purpose and hope that we will be there for each other as Christians no matter the circumstance.