Recently hired teachers share background, motivation

(Editor's note: Beginning in Feb. 2006, HMS has hired several new teachers and also has had two teachers from Columbia H.S. join its staff. HMS website reporter Dakota Williams obtained information from them for a "Question-and-Answer profile." Two of the teachers are featured now. Other profiles will appear soon.)

Ursala Kirmani-5th/6th grade art, hired 2007-2008 school year

What started your interest in art?
I was born with it

What were your favorite subjects in school?
Photography, jewelry, and history

What first interested you in teaching?
Working with youth from Umatilla Indian Reservation led to awareness that she had the capacity to work with young people

What school did you go to?
University of Oregon in Eugene, OR and Heritage University in Toppenish, WA

How long have you been teaching?
19 years

What is one of your favorite things to do while working?
I enjoy one on one teaching and answering questions for individual students, because each student has unique talents

What are some of your hobbies?
Drawing, and developing art projects for students

Do you have any kids?
Two daughters

Gary McKinley-5th/6th Grade Blended Classroom, hired as leave replacement 2007-2008

What were your favorite subjects in school?
Math and geography

What started your interest in teaching?
I was a military instructor for some years and found it rewarding.

What school did you go to?
Austin High School and Hillsboro High in Texas, Drury University for both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Missouri, and Administrator's Degree through Heritage University in Washington

How long have you been teaching?
17 years

What is one of your favorite things to do while working?
Observe people/students and the way they interact with one another

What are some of your hobbies?

Golfing, sailing, windsurfing, and boating

Do you have any kids?
Two boys, one in college in Walla Walla, WA, and the other in the Coast guard in Sacramento, CA