Making schools a place students want to be: Amy Kelly
By Laura Pohl, Contributing Writer
Veteran educator Dr. Amy Kelly understands the critical importance of childhood education and works to prepare Governors State University (GovState) students for the challenges they’ll face as teachers.
“I’m passionate about designing learning experiences that make school a place (young) students want to be,” said Kelly, Associate Professor of Education. Her GovState students learn to make their classroom lessons accessible and meaningful.
Kelly earned her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership for Teaching and Learning from Lewis University, her M.A. in Educational Administration from Governors State University, and her B.S. in Education from Eastern Illinois University. She was granted tenure by GovState in 2025.
Preparing future teachers for contemporary classrooms
Kelly’s extensive experience as an elementary educator cultivated her expertise in special education, general education, and English as a Second Language. She is especially passionate about challenges posed by the overuse of technology and screens in early childhood. “I’m interested in conversations around how we can protect play, curiosity, and hands-on learning while still preparing future teachers for contemporary classrooms.
Kelly teaches Literacy in Early Childhood Education and supervises student teachers, focusing on relationships and personal growth. ”I love to walk alongside my students as they become confident, reflective educators,” Kelly said. “I find meaning in helping them connect theory to real classrooms and in supporting them through what is often a pivotal and deeply personal journey toward becoming a teacher.”
She wants these future teachers to graduate with a sense of empowerment, confidence in their professional judgment, and trust in their preparation. “I want them to see themselves as capable educators who can adapt, reflect, and advocate for children and families with intention and integrity.”
Practicing makes perfect
Kelly’s courses incorporate active, experiential learning. “Rather than only writing about teaching, my students practice through role-playing, simulations, collaborative planning, and hands-on exploration of materials.” She creates a supportive environment where they can try ideas, make mistakes, and revise their thinking. “I also use reflective media tools such as photo journaling and video documentation as alternatives to traditional written assignments, to demonstrate learning in different ways,” she explained.
Relationships make GovState special
Kelly finds that GovState’s community is notable for its students and supportive faculty, and the relationships that are developed.
“I was raised in the south suburbs, attended the same schools many of our students did, earned my master’s degree here, and later taught in those same local schools,” she said. “That shared background creates a strong sense of understanding and purpose. The relationships I have built with students and colleagues are what make GovState a meaningful place to teach and learn.”
Interested in applying for the Early Childhood Education program at GovState? Click here to learn more about the Early Childhood Education program.