Kindergarten teacher Kim Broomer has been named the 2025 Teacher of the Year for Washington State. Photo credit: Washington Education Association.

It is always my pleasure to share the story of an outstanding educator who has earned accolades for their work in one of our country’s public schools. today I share the story of Kim Broomer, a kindergarten teacher from Washington. She has been named her state’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.

Kim teaches at Ruby Bridges Elementary School in the Northshore School District in Woodinville. She says her primary goal is to build connections and nurture relationships. But above all, inclusivity is at the heart of everything she does in her classroom.  “I view my role as a community builder,” she asserts. “Creating safe spaces in which students are seen, heard and that they matter.” She credits this emphasis to her own diagnosis of ADHD. “Knowing that I have ADHD, there is a beautiful fit and connection between my students and me,” she says, “making my classroom a safe space in which we can all belong, learn, love, and grow together, just as we are.”

Her career as an educator spans 23 years, but Kim’s decision to become a teacher can be traced back to her mother, who ran a small in-home day care center, she reveals.

Her selection as Teacher of the Year is not the only recognition Kim has earned. She was named Ahead of the Class by the Renton Chamber of Commerce, an Innovative Teacher of the Year by the Northshore School Foundation, and one of the Heroes in the Classroom by the Seattle Seahawks.  And the State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction has selected her to work towards improving inclusionary practices statewide. In addition, Kim has received numerous grants for innovation, leadership, and community outreach.

Kim earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences from the University of Washington. She earned her Master’s degree in Teaching from the same institution. In 2010, she earned her National Board Certification.

To read more about Kim Broomer, click on this link to a story about her published by the Washington Dept. of Supt. of Public Instruction.