Employee Story
At Aspire, we value all our team members. Our staff comes to Aspire with a desire to serve our students and is dedicated to the organization’s mission. They are focused on walking alongside our students from the beginning of their journey to the end. This month we are meeting Shannon Kline, who is our Adult Education Coordinator. Read the full interview below.
Name: Shannon Kline
Position at Aspire: Adult Education Coordinator
What is your background? Family growing up. Where are you from? Have you lived in different cities?
I am from a military family and lived all over the United States growing up. Twenty-one years ago, I moved to Texas and have been here since. Texas is the place I have lived the longest throughout my life. I am a mom of six and a grandma of five. My family means the world to me.
Growing up, what did you do for fun, hobbies? Do you have any hobbies now?
Growing up, I was a ballerina and did my final dance (on pointe) at the age of 24. Being a dancer, it was always my dream to dance pointe, and I reached that goal when I turned 12 years old. My current hobbies include reading, crafting, and walking. I am also the queen of binge-watching TV series!
Did you go to university or college? Field of study What were you like as a student?
I have a BA in Psychology, a BA in Early Childhood Education, and an M.Ed. in Instructional Leadership. I loved school and still do! Learning new things is exciting to me. If my only job was going to school and learning, I’d love it. I am very curious.
What was your very first job? Other jobs, current or past?
I have had many jobs in my life, starting from the age of 14 as a maid. I also worked in retail, sales, and call centers. My career path evolved to education. I taught in K12 schools (both private and public) for 15 years. I served as a teacher, team leader, and instructional coach during that time. I also worked with the central office as a district and campus trainer in addition to my other roles. While in education and after, I became a coach and public speaker. I enjoy using my creativity and talents both in and out of the field of education.
FUN FACTS
Favorite quote:
“The expert at anything was once a beginner.” – Hellen Hayes
Your top 3 favorite Podcasts/Books:
1. The CEO Teacher Podcast;
2. Jen Sincero Series;
3. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
Your top 3 favorite movies or television shows:
I love so many shows that it is hard to say just three! My all-time favorite show is Revenge. I am a huge fan of the Twilight movies. My favorite Disney movie is Beauty & the Beast (the cartoon).
WORKING AT ASPIRE
What do you like best about working at Aspire?
I began working for Aspire in February 2023. I love all aspects of Aspire. The team is great, and talking to the students makes me happy!
What makes you the proudest of our students?
When they keep going even when they want to give up. I also love it when they surprise themselves by how far they have come.
What do you hope for our students?
I hope that our students realize that there is nothing they cannot accomplish in this life, that they can achieve all they desire, and that each step forward is one step closer to reaching their goals.
We are grateful to have Shannon on the Aspire team! She brings her students a lifetime of experience and a love for our mission.
