How one dedicated secretary balances her passion for education with the demands of her community and family.

In the bustling halls of Benton Grade School, where the cacophony of children’s laughter and the hum of daily activity never cease, Valerie Kinsman stands as a pillar of strength and compassion. For the past five years, Valerie has served as the PK-4 Secretary, a role that has cemented her place as an indispensable part of the school community. Her journey to this point is a testament to her boundless love for children.

Valerie’s path to becoming the K-4 Secretary was paved with a deep-rooted commitment to education and community. Originally from West Frankfort, Valerie moved to Benton sixteen years ago with her husband, who works for Ameren, after spending time in Belleville and St. Louis. This move was driven by a desire to raise their four boys in a safe and supportive environment, and Benton proved to be the perfect choice.

Before officially joining the school staff, Valerie was a dedicated parent volunteer, helping with various tasks and immersing herself in the school community. “I started out as a volunteer when my kids were little,” Valerie recalls. “I was here two days a week, working with all the grade levels, doing whatever was needed.” Her enthusiasm and reliability quickly earned her a place as a sub secretary, filling in whenever someone was absent.

When the position of pre-kindergarten through fourthgrade secretary opened up, Valerie was the natural choice. Her familiarity with the school, coupled with her unwavering dedication, made her an ideal candidate. “When this spot opened up, they approached me to see if I was interested in being here all the time,” she says with a smile. And she hasn’t looked back since.

Valerie’s role is multifaceted and demanding, yet she handles it with remarkable grace and efficiency. Her days are filled with a whirlwind of activities: managing attendance, coordinating with teachers, interacting with parents, and most importantly, connecting with the students. “My favorite part is the kids,” Valerie beams. “I love that all day long, I see kids from different grade levels. I would say 95% to 99% of them, I know their name. I feel like that makes a difference to them, where they know that somebody knows who they are.”

This personal touch is what sets Valerie apart. In a world where many children face challenging home environments, Valerie’s presence provides a sense of stability and warmth. “Just bring them to us,” she says passionately. “We’ll feed them, we’ll quell them, we’ll hug them, we’ll teach them. We’ll do all the things. Just bring them to us.” Her words are a heartfelt invitation to parents, assuring them that their children are in good hands.

Valerie’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing the demands of her role with raising a family is no small feat, especially with four boys, including twins. Yet, she manages to keep everything in harmony, attributing her organizational skills to her experience as a mother. “I think it’s just from having all the kids,” she explains. “I had to do it all.”

Her family is a significant part of her life, and her dedication to them is evident. Her eldest son is pursuing a business degree at Rend Lake, while her twins are preparing for their senior year of high school. Her youngest, known affectionately around town as “the governor,” is about to start high school, brimming with enthusiasm and charm. Valerie says the moniker was given to him by State Representative Dave Severin because of the young man’s people skills. We know Dave, and we imagine he knows a good people-person when he sees one!

Valerie’s commitment to the school and the community extends well beyond her secretarial duties. She is a friend and a confidant to many of her colleagues, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support. “A lot of these people are my friends,” she says. “We go to church together, our kids play sports together. We all take care of each other. Everybody looks out for everybody and their kids.”

This sense of community is what makes Benton Grade School special, and Valerie is at the heart of it. Her ability to handle the chaos of the office, greet each child with a smile, and support her colleagues is nothing short of remarkable. She exemplifies the spirit of dedication and compassion that every school strives to embody.

As Valerie reflects on her journey and the impact she has made, she remains humble and focused on the children she serves. “I think my biggest goal is to love on the kids that don’t have the love at home,” she says. And with every smile, every kind word, and every act of kindness, Valerie Kinsman makes a difference, one child at a time.

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, Valerie’s steady presence at Benton Grade School is a beacon of hope and love. Her story is a reminder that even in the smallest roles, we have the power to make a profound impact on the lives of others. Valerie Kinsman is not just a secretary; she is the heartbeat of Benton Grade School, and her legacy of care and compassion will continue to inspire all who have the privilege of knowing her.