Hi, my name is Karen Walk and I am delighted to be teaching Kindergarten again at Pioneer Elementary!  This will be an exciting year as the students work together to show their Pioneer Pride!!

        I received my elementary teaching certificate from Illinois State University several years ago, my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from National-Louis University in the spring of ’09, and an endorsement in Special Education in '12.  I worked for 5 years in the Valley View School District before taking time off to start a family.  While I was off I continued to be involved in the school district as a tutor and parent helper.  I’m sure most of you will agree being the parent of 3 children is very educational too!  I returned to Pioneer in 2005 so this will be my 20th year in the district.  I have taught kindergarten, second and third grades.

        I have been married for 34 years and have 2 sons, a daughter and a dog! My oldest son graduated from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater with a degree in Business Administration.  My daughter also graduated from ISU with a degree in special education and is currently teaching at Oak View in Bolingbrook.  My youngest son went to ISU and graduated in AUgust of 2018 with a bachelor's degree in Business Marketing. I feel very blessed to have such a terrific family!  I believe as parents and teachers we have a responsibility to raise well educated, responsible individuals for our future, and to encourage our kids to be the best that they can be! 

        My hobbies include boating, water skiing, and spending time together as a family.  I also enjoy arts and crafts, taking walks, and being outside in the sunshine as much as possible. Mexican and Italian foods are my favorite and I’m not a big fan of coffee shops (I’d rather make my own-sorry Starbucks!) I also love chocolate.....especially dark! I’m looking forward to a new year with some super kindergarteners!