Hands-On Learning, Heart-Led Teaching: Meet Educator Katherine Peck

Educator Spotlight | Brookside Elementary | Grades K–2

For Katherine Peck, teaching has never been just about lesson plans or assessments — it’s about showing up for students with compassion, creativity and an unwavering belief in their potential. Now in her 20th year as an educator at Brookside Elementary, Katherine brings heart-led teaching and hands-on learning together in ways that make a lasting impact on her students.

Katherine Peck’s K–2 classroom at Brookside Elementary, where hands-on learning and connection come together.

Inspired by Example

Katherine’s journey into education began close to home. Watching her mother transition from preschool teacher to kindergarten educator left a lasting impression — not just of the work, but of the heart behind it.

“Seeing her dedicate countless hours to her classroom and her students showed me what it truly means to care, to serve, and to lead with heart.”

That example shaped Katherine’s own approach to teaching — one rooted in service, perseverance and deep care for children as whole people.

Teaching the Whole Child

What sets Katherine apart is her belief that learning doesn’t happen in isolation. Every student arrives with unique academic, social and emotional needs — and she works tirelessly to meet them where they are.

“I believe that all students are capable of learning — we just need to diversify our teaching to meet each student where they are.”

From ensuring students have access to basic necessities like snacks, coats or sneakers, to creating a classroom where children feel safe and supported, Katherine’s teaching extends far beyond academics.

“For me, teaching goes beyond academics. It’s about showing up for kids in every way that matters.”

A Moment That Says It All

One of Katherine’s most meaningful teaching moments came from a second-grade student who entered her classroom without foundational reading skills. Through patient, hands-on instruction and consistent encouragement, that student made remarkable progress over the course of the year.

Near the end of the year, he proudly asked to read a decodable book aloud to his former first-grade teacher — a milestone that reflected not only academic growth, but newfound confidence.

“It wasn’t just about the words he was reading — it was about the incredible progress he had made.”

Moments like these remind Katherine why she teaches.

“Watching him realize how far he’d come was a beautiful reminder of why I love teaching — to help students unlock their potential and see them shine.”

Creativity, Connection, and Hands-On Learning

In Katherine’s classroom, learning is active, tactile and joyful. She regularly incorporates games, word-building activities and collaborative exercises to help students engage with language in meaningful ways.

“When students get the chance to be hands-on with the material, they not only learn better — they develop a deeper connection with the content.”

As an AccuCut contest winner, Katherine is excited to expand those hands-on experiences even further with the MARK 5 Die-Cutting Machine she received for her classroom.

“AccuCut products will allow me to turn abstract concepts into tangible, interactive experiences that make learning feel more like an adventure.”

From customized learning tools to collaborative classroom projects, she sees endless possibilities for creativity and engagement.

The MARK 5 Die-Cutting Machine helps educators bring hands-on learning to life — safely, quickly and creatively.

Words of Wisdom for New Educators

After two decades in the classroom, Katherine offers simple but powerful advice to those just beginning their teaching journey: be flexible, stay consistent and build relationships.

“If there’s one thing I can’t stress enough, it’s the importance of building strong, trusting relationships with your students.”

She also reminds new teachers to give themselves grace.

“Teaching is a lifelong journey, not a race. You’re going to make mistakes — and that’s okay.”

Fueled by Student Growth

Even after 20 years, Katherine’s motivation remains rooted in student progress — especially when it comes to reading. Watching hesitant readers gain confidence and discover joy in books continues to drive her passion.

“The most motivating thing for me is seeing students not only improve their reading skills, but begin to love reading.”

It’s those moments — big and small — that make every challenge worthwhile.

Katherine Peck’s story is a powerful reminder that hands-on learning paired with heart-led teaching can change lives. Through compassion, creativity and belief in her students, she continues to make a meaningful difference — one reader, one moment, one child at a time.