Kimberly Oliver Burnim began her teaching career in Montgomery County Public Schools in 2000.  Determined to make a difference in the lives of at risk children, she chose to teach at Broad Acres Elementary, a culturally and linguistically diverse school in Silver Spring, Maryland. The state was considering Broad Acres for reconstitution at that time due to several years of declining test scores, but the district decided to restructure the school internally.  During this process, Burnim served as a teacher leader and is credited with having a major role in the instructional design of the school.  Significant school-wide gains in student achievement have been made.  Broad Acres has achieved Adequate Yearly Progress for several consecutive years, meeting or exceeding all requirements for the No Child Left Behind Act.

Now in her tenth year of teaching, Burnim still believes that all students are capable of achieving.  As the "first teacher" for many of her students, she strives to instill in them a love of learning.  She values high quality early childhood education and advocates for our youngest learners. Burnim demonstrates commitment to her own professional development as well.  In 2004, she achieved National Board Certification as an Early Childhood Generalist.  She also is dedicated to the professional development of her colleagues and serves as a teacher trainer for the district.

Burnim has received numerous awards and in 2006, she was named the National Teacher of the Year.  Following a year as a full-time education spokesperson and advocate, she is back in her classroom.  However, Burnim continues to speak to groups nationwide, sharing her story, advocating for students as well as teachers, and spreading her enthusiasm for education.