Principal's education shaped life
Kim Bentley
Age: 38
Occupation: Tradewind Elementary School principal

Where did you receive your education?
High School: Amarillo High School; College: West Texas A & M University.

How has your education played a role in your life today?
I love children. God has blessed me with the opportunity to be with children every day. My job has shaped the person I have become. Children are my life.

What was your greatest educational challenge and how did you overcome it?
My greatest challenge was having the money to pay for my education. I overcame it by working two jobs. I was very determined. I worked a full-time and part-time job so I would have enough money to pay for school as well as for my living expenses.

What is the value of your education?
The value is very important to me. My education shapes who I am as a person.

What would you say to someone who's undecided about continuing their education?
Getting an education is a must. You will have more job opportunities with a degree. You will also learn to persevere to help you become successful.

When did you make education a priority?
I loved school from the start. I took it very serious. I wanted the best grades and tried my hardest every day.

What made you realize the importance of education in your life?
My mom and dad would encourage me every day. They did not go to college and wanted a better life for me.

Did you ever think of quitting? What made you keep going?
I never wanted to quit. I knew it was something I needed to do for myself as well as for my family. Going to college was an expectation with my family.