2023-24 October Teacher of the Month
For the best of teachers, education is a calling as much as it is an occupation, and that is certainly the Sky Zone’s October Teacher of the Month, Krista Haydt. Enjoy getting to know Haydt, who is an institution at Lakewood Elementary School.
Teacher of the Month
How long have you been a teacher (overall and along the Grand Strand)? I was born and raised here so I have taught on the Grand Strand my entire career. I have taught kindergarten at Lakewood for all 25 years of my teaching career.
What led you into teaching and what continues to motivate you? I have always wanted to be a teacher, specifically a kindergarten teacher. My grandmother was a teacher in Georgetown County and I grew up going to visit her school, “helping grade papers,” and dreaming of having my own class one day. She is by far my role model and who I wanted to become. I would watch her run into former students and even as a child could see the impact she made on those lives. I wanted to have that same journey.
What was your reaction to winning the award? I was surprised and VERY excited! It is a privilege to be nominated and even to win. However, I was most excited because it allows an opportunity for my children to visit Sky Zone and Crazy Mason (something that is not always an option for every family). I love when they can have experiences within the community. I am also VERY thankful for Sky Zone and Crazy Mason to share that with my families.
What was the reaction of your class? The children are super excited! They love hearing about any prizes but were extra surprised that they were included.
Have you been to Sky Zone before? If so, what was your experience like? I have been to Rockin Jump before and held birthday parties there but have not had the opportunity to go to the new Sky Zone. I am super excited.
What do you find most rewarding about being a teacher? Kindergarten is the best way to spend any day. It is the grade you see the most growth academically and social/emotionally. It is also a year I can spend seeing learning, wonder, and excitement through the eyes of a child. Teaching kindergarten allows me the opportunity to create excitement for school and lifelong learners. I JUST LOVE KINDERGARTENERS!
Outside of the classroom, what are some of your interests? My family is always the first. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 26 years and we have two amazing children (a 17-year-old daughter and an 18-year-old son). We spend time together boating on the river, hanging out at baseball (my husband has always helped coach our son and now that he is grown, a younger generation that I am always there to cheer on) and I love reading.