At Choice Schools Associates, we are proud to have a staff filled with champions. To celebrate the amazing people who help our schools thrive, we’re excited to introduce Choice Champions, a new initiative that spotlights outstanding individuals within the Choice Schools network.
We’re thrilled to announce that our very first Choice Champion is Ms. Karen Sullivan of Bradford Academy!
Walking into Ms. Sullivan’s classroom feels like stepping into a storybook. It’s not just the charming decor inspired by beloved children’s books or the uplifting words that cover the walls. It’s the magic in the air. In a room full of kindergarteners, you’ll find focus, respect, and a lot of love, all of which reflect Ms. Sullivan’s care and dedication.
Ms. Sullivan has been part of the Bradford Academy family for four years, and has devoted 32 years to teaching. Even as a child, she knew this was her calling. She would line up her dolls, turn her bedroom walls into a chalkboard, and play “teacher” long before she ever entered a real classroom. That early passion still shines through in her work today.
When asked what drew her to Bradford, Ms. Sullivan said it was the warmth of the staff and the welcoming environment.
“The culture is diverse, the people are kind, and it feels like home,” she shared. “I love how the students grow up here, from kindergarten to high school, and still come back for hugs in the hallway.”
That sense of connection is what makes Bradford special to her. Her colleagues feel the same. One staff member who nominated her for this recognition shared,
“Ms. Sullivan puts her all into supporting her students’ growth. She maintains great communication with parents so everyone can work together for each child’s success. Beyond her students and families, she cares deeply for her coworkers, always thinking about ways to brighten their day or offer support.”
Ms. Sullivan’s classroom reflects her heart for teaching. She strives to make it a place where students feel safe, curious, and inspired. “I want them to walk in and say, ‘Wow, I really like it here,’” she said. Even when it’s quiet, she wants them to be surrounded by learning and opportunities to explore. She is quick to celebrate their progress, especially for students facing challenges. “Sometimes you don’t see it right away, but then comes that ‘aha’ moment when they finally get it,” she shared. “That makes me feel so good as a teacher and reminds me to keep doing what I’m doing.”
When she’s not creating engaging lessons, Ms. Sullivan loves participating in school traditions like the Fall Crawl, fire department visits, and Character Choices assemblies. “It’s special to see students take pride in their school and their actions,” she said.
Ultimately, her “why” will always be her students.
“The hugs, the love, the joy they bring me, they are my why,” she shared. “Even on tough days, when they run to greet me in the morning, it reminds me why I’m here.”
Congratulations, Ms. Sullivan, on being named our first Choice Champion. Your dedication, heart, and passion for teaching truly embody what it means to be a champion for students and your community.