Teacher of the Year: Kim Tobin King, TCS '85

An elementary school art teacher from Mansfield is Connecticut’s teacher of the year for 2022. Kim King, who teaches at both Southeast Elementary School and the Annie E. Vinton School, was named this year’s winner and honored at an assembly with Gov. Ned Lamont and other officials, King’s family and students from both schools Thursday morning.

In announcing the honor, Lamont thanked King and all Connecticut teachers.

“Ms. King embodies so many of the qualities that delivers success in our schools,” he said in a release. “We owe so much of the success that happens in our communities to the generous teachers who have dedicated themselves to this noble profession. I thank Ms. King and every teacher in Connecticut for what they provide our schools each and every day.”

Administrators said King, who taught in East Hartford and Westbrook before coming to the Mansfield district six years ago, has distinguished herself by nurturing students and encouraging both confidence and creativity.

“Kim’s warm and caring heart comes through in all that she does with our students, families, and staff,” Lauren Rodriguez, principal of Southeast Elementary School, said. “Our children love her because they know how much she cares about them. They also trust that she will help them create their best work — work that shows students’ individuality and creative spark.”

Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias lauded King for her continuing pursuit of professional development.

“A role model to her students, she is committed to her own growth and learning, ensuring that her leadership and teaching practices continue to evolve,” Dias said. “Equity, empathy, and respect are at the heart of her teaching, and we are proud to see Kim recognized for the invaluable work she does and for the talent, passion, and dedication she brings to the teaching profession.”

King was chosen by the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, composed of former winners and community representatives, from candidates submitted by local school districts. She will represent Connecticut in the 2022 National Teacher of the Year contest. She succeeds Rochelle Brown, a kindergarten teacher from Poquonock School in Windsor.