Staff Spotlight – Kelanie Farmer
Tell us a little about yourself! What inspired you to become a teacher?
I was born to be “bossy” my Momma says. She tells the story of me as a child lining up all of my dolls and stuffed animals to teach them. I’d wear her heels and tell them to “be good” and “listen.” As I entered high school and watched my hearing impaired sister navigate the school system, I knew immediately that I would be a special education teacher and advocate for every child to have an opportunity to learn and be successful.
What brought you to Magnolia Speech School, and what excites you most about being here?
My sister attended MSS as a baby. She started at 2 years old and my mother worked here to supplement her tuition. We lived in Yazoo City so during the summers, I would come to Magnolia and “help” where I could since my school was out. I loved the halls then and love them even more now. There is a sense of family and hope that only MSS offers.
What is your favorite part of working with our students?
Many of our students come to us broken down and feeling failed by everyone. When they begin to feel the love, support, and confidence that we offer, their eyes tell their story. Then, when those students become alumni and return “home” for visits, it is the BEST feeling in the world! They hug you tighter and thank you louder. Each one is proud of themselves and what they achieve every day. Their stories of frustration turn into gratitude. It is very heartwarming and moving to be a part of.
What is your go-to coffee (or favorite morning) order?
Cups Blondie decaf made with espresso. Whole milk, whip cream, and don’t skip the caramel drizzle!
What is one fun fact about yourself that most people don’t know?
I am an island girl! Born in Kingston, Jamaica and lived right down the street from Bob Marley’s house. My mom tells a story that she would drive by but never saw him. I love reggae music also!
Outside of the classroom, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love crafting and traveling with my husband on the weekends.
What is one goal you have for this school year?
I have many goals set, but the one that sticks out the most is to make sure every child knows that they are important and they matter.
What do you love most about working with students with dyslexia?
What I love most is watching a student discover that they can learn. So often, students with dyslexia have experienced frustration and may begin to believe that they are simply “not good at school.” I love helping them understand that they are capable and that, with the right strategies and instruction, they can make progress. Seeing that confidence grow is incredibly rewarding.
What’s one thing you wish every parent knew about dyslexia?
I wish every parent knew that dyslexia does not mean a child isn’t smart or capable. Dyslexia affects the way a student learns to read and process written language, but it does not define their intelligence, creativity, or potential. With the right instruction, patience, and support, students can learn and become confident readers and writers.
What’s your favorite part of a therapy session?
My favorite part is when something finally clicks for a student. It might be a sound they’ve struggled to remember, a word they’ve worked hard to decode, or a spelling pattern that suddenly makes sense. I love seeing that moment when their face changes and they realize, “I got it!” Those little victories are what make the hard work worthwhile.
What’s one thing that makes you proud of your students?
I am most proud of their perseverance. Dyslexia can make learning to read and spell incredibly challenging, yet my students continue to show up, try again, and keep working even when something is difficult. Watching them become more confident, more independent, and willing to tackle something they once thought they couldn’t do is one of the most rewarding parts of this work.