At Frank D. Moates Elementary, Teresa Kelly, 3rd Grade bilingual math teacher, brings dedication, preparation, and heart to her classroom each day. With 22 years in education and four years serving DeSoto ISD, Kelly exemplifies what it means to be a steady, committed presence for students as they grow academically, emotionally, and personally.
Mrs. Kelly holds a Master of Science in Elementary Education from Wheelock College, a foundation that supports her deep understanding of effective instructional practices and student-centered learning. Throughout her career, she has remained focused on ensuring her students receive high-quality, standards-aligned instruction while also feeling supported and valued.
The PRIDE value that most strongly guides Kelly’s work is Determination. She is driven by a deep commitment to making sure every student has what they need to succeed—including resources, materials, and thoughtful, intentional instruction. For Kelly, determination also means being fully prepared each day and remaining responsive to students’ academic, emotional, and mental needs. She believes in meeting learners where they are and persevering through any obstacles that may arise. Her goal is always to help students do their absolute best in everything they pursue.
Kelly’s personal “why” is rooted in service. “I love to serve others,” she shares. The classroom provides daily opportunities for her to be a spark—helping young minds grow academically, emotionally, and socially. Seeing her students learn, progress, and succeed is what makes each day rewarding and meaningful.
Through her role as a math teacher, Kelly contributes to the future of DeSoto ISD by helping meet district goals and developing strong, positive, and capable learners. She understands that the work happening in her classroom today helps shape tomorrow’s leaders and citizens and takes that responsibility to heart.
Supporting the whole child and whole adult is central to Kelly’s approach. She believes in offering support wherever she can—whether to a student or a colleague. When she identifies a need she is able to meet, she steps in with care and compassion, striving to never turn away when she knows she can help.
The impact Kelly is most proud of is witnessing her students’ growth—both academically and personally. Watching learners gain confidence, understanding, and pride in themselves reinforces why she remains so committed to her work.
She strives for excellence by consistently preparing instruction through careful review of curriculum materials and TEKS-aligned instructional strategies. Kelly ensures all materials are organized and ready each day so she can provide effective, purposeful instruction that meets students’ needs.
During challenging moments, Kelly stays grounded through her faith, relying on God, encouraging music, and the support of her family and colleagues. Professionally, she finds inspiration in former teachers who made a lasting impact on her life, including Mr. Patterson, Mr. Lobdell, Mrs. Smith, and Mrs. Fisher.
Outside the classroom, Kelly enjoys sewing and quilting and has an entire room devoted to her sewing and quilting machines—a creative outlet that brings her joy. Looking ahead, she is excited about DeSoto ISD’s continued commitment to doing what is best for the students and families it serves.
Through determination, preparation, and a heart for service, Teresa Kelly continues to make a lasting difference for DeSoto ISD students—one lesson, one day, and one child at a time.