Kia Vang is a passionate educator from Merced, California. Kia's love for learning was ignited during her time at the University of California, Irvine, where she took a class on education that sparked her passion for teaching. After earning her degree and gaining experience as a preschool teacher, Kia pursued her Master’s program at Johns Hopkins University while continuing to teach full-time. She has taught fourth grade for three years, a grade level she cherishes for its inquisitive learners who question the world around them. At REACH, Kia appreciates the strong community connection and the welcoming nature of the staff and students. She is driven by the opportunity to work with a diverse student population and values the rich experiences and stories they bring. Kia's professional growth includes aspirations to earn a Doctorate or PhD in educational psychology to better understand what motivates students to learn. Outside of the classroom, Kia enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with family and friends, playing with her puppy, and exploring new places. Her favorite books are The Five People You Meet in Heaven and Tuesdays with Morrie, and she adores all types of food. Kia's dedication to her students was recognized when she was named Teacher of the Month and saw 80% of her students achieve their goals, a testament to her impactful teaching and commitment.