Dr. Dan Powell, Heartbeat Award winner Kimberly Hirth and Principal Kristina Turner

Kimberly Hirth, cafeteria manager at Parkway Elementary School, was selected as the Crowley ISD Heartbeat Team Award winner for January. Ms. Hirth has worked for Crowley ISD for 27 years, with almost 20 years at Parkway.

In nominating Hirth for the award, Parkway staff members noted her positive attitude, how she takes the time to develop meaningful relationships with the students and how she “always delivers an encouraging message as they walk through the lunch line.”

Parkway Principal Kristina Turner called Hirth an “extraordinary educator.”

“She serves our learners in the cafeteria but always is willing to lend a helping hand in so many other ways,” Turner wrote. “She is a true kid watcher and has even brought to our attention learners who struggle with academic issues such as speech impairments, etc. She is the epitome of what all great educators should be — compassionate, loving, respectful. She truly desires that every single student at Parkway has the very best.”

Hirth’s impact is felt beyond the lunch line at Parkway, as she stops by the front office each morning to serve the students who have arrived to school late, the principal wrote. 

“She never hesitates to do what she can to make a positive impact in the lives of students,” Turner wrote. “From hugs to firm but loving correction, she gives students what they need, when they need it. She is student centered and staff centered. She always has an encouraging word and a positive attitude in spite of what may be going on around her.

“Ms. Hirth provides not only food for our kids’ souls, but she also provides inspiration to our students as well. I can honestly say that Ms. Hirth embodies what having a heart for all kids is truly all about.”

Ms. Hirth was excited to receive the honor. She was surprised in front of a crowd of fourth-graders eating lunch in the cafeteria. She said she cares about the students so much because, “They’re family.”

“You get to know each one of them and their families and the personalities of each child — they’re family,” she said. “We’re here to serve them.”

The Heartbeat Team Award is sponsored in part by Crowley ISD community partners EECU and Inspire Salon/Spa. Hirth received a $50 Visa gift card courtesy of EECU and a spa gift card for a custom facial courtesy of Inspire Salon/Spa.