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Inspired by her mom’s work as a teacher, Kim Hollmann enrolled in the Master of Education in Educational Leadership program with a desire to carry on the legacy of being an educator that fosters belonging in and beyond the classroom. Through her studies, she deepened her understanding of what it means to lead with empathy and imagination.

“My mom was an incredible teacher. Growing up, I saw how she made every student feel safe, heard, and valued. She always went out of her way to include and support everyone in her classroom. Watching her showed me that teaching is about so much more than academics — it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives.�

“In my classroom, I’ve built strong relationships with students and parents. I meet them where they are, guide them to enjoy the process of learning, and recognize that sometimes life gets in the way — and that’s okay. I went into my master’s program with the goal of taking that same approach beyond my classroom and across the whole school community as a school leader.�

“A big focus in the program was on learning how to lead in ways that make students, staff, and parents feel welcome and heard. We also worked with the tools of imagination — things like play, metaphor, and story — as a way to help others envision change. These tools allow people to picture new possibilities and feel part of shaping them. Real change happens when everyone feels they belong.�

A Defining Moment

Kim’s research project involved interviewing former students about how new school policy helped them to graduate. This became a defining moment for her as it transformed how she sees herself as an educator.

“What I discovered was that [the students] didn’t dislike the school or their teachers — they just needed to be seen. Their struggles with things like ADHD, anxiety, or keeping pace were causing them to pause. With the right adaptations, like flexible spaces and supportive relationships, they could thrive. Through this I recognized that my role is to help create schools that truly meet students where they are and allow space and time to grow.�

Learning in a Cohort and Key Learnings

“The program challenged me by pushing me out of the isolation that can sometimes come with teaching. As educators, we’re always striving to improve, but it can feel like you’re doing that work alone. I valued hearing other adults share the same struggles I was experiencing in the program... it pushed me to open up about my own views, ideals, and challenges. My classmates taught me to see students as puzzles to understand rather than problems to fix. They reminded me that collaboration is key — when we make time, create space, even share a meal, incredible conversations and ideas follow.�

“I also learned how important it is to listen to all voices in a school. Educational assistants know so much about our most vulnerable kids, and we need to bring them to the table and encourage their input. Our ELL students need to see themselves reflected in the system, and girls with ADHD often present differently, which we need to recognize.�

The experience in the program affirmed Kim’s desire to move into formal leadership roles within a school. It showed her that leadership goes beyond managing and is also about creating a culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and heard.

“Moving forward, my aspiration is to help shape a school community where students can thrive, teachers feel supported, and families feel included. The program gave me the confidence and the tools to believe that I can contribute to that kind of positive change.�

Advice for future Faculty of Education Students

“Don’t just look at what education is — think about what it could be. We need people who are willing to reimagine and reshape education, so it truly meets the needs of all learners. If you come into the Faculty of Education with an open mind and a willingness to imagine new possibilities, you’ll be ready to make a real difference. Also, kids are amazing and so much fun. This job can be a lot, but it is always worth it when you ignite the passion to learn.�