Teacher Feature: Kurtis Janzen

This year the students weren't the only ones new to the Kindergarten classroom. Kurtis Janzen also began his first year at Lincoln School.

Janzen spends his morning with the kindergartners and his afternoon teaching math, science and social studies to kindergarten and first grade.

While this is Janzen's first year teaching, he began his career in the education system in Conrad, Mont. as a tennis coach and classroom aid.

Janzen attended film school in California and returned home to Conrad. After getting a job at Conrad Public School he knew he wanted to become a teacher.

"I discovered I had a passion to work with kids, and after two years of working as an aid and a coach it was time to get my degree," said Janzen.

He attended University of Montana and received his degree in elementary education. Janzen's favorite part about teaching is his students. "They make the day fun, challenging and you get to see growth throughout the year."

Janzen remembers as a child enjoying drives through Lincoln. He came here for the position knowing he wanted to teach Kindergarten. He is also an aspiring wildlife photographer and Lincoln is the perfect place for outdoor activities.

In his free time Janzen enjoys fishing, movie editing, photography, watching movies, hunting and tying flies.