February 12, 2019

To Whom it May Concern:

I have had the opportunity to work and learn with Ms. Kuhl in my role as the Des Moines Schools Coordinator of
International Baccalaureate Teacher Development. I directly support Christy in aspects of her role as an
instructional coach, where she consistently demonstrates a firm dedication to doing the right work and maintains
an intense focus on what is best for all students. Ms. Kuhl’s professional reputation has placed her as an authority
for teacher development and curriculum and instruction that align with our district mission and vision.

Her experience as both an elementary and secondary educator position Ms. Kuhl well to support educators and
students at various levels. During her time at Goodrell, Ms. Kuhl has effectively coached teachers around best
practices related to academic and social emotional learning, including the International Baccalaureate framework
and Responsive Classroom. As a trusted member of the leadership team, she is relied on as the primary
instructional adviser in her building. She approaches discussions and actions collaboratively, with student data at
the forefront, and using an equity mindset.

Ms. Kuhl is willing to accept new challenges and leads by listening and guiding with a student-centered approach.
Long-term planning that includes a clear vision and an organized progression of actions are what make her
successful as a leader She has a comfortable rapport with teachers and has effectively guided change in various
leadership capacities -- from systems transitions like standards-based assessment, to her role in implementing
Multi-Tiered System of Support, to transforming the way in which Goodrell sixth graders learn; now through
interdisciplinary smaller learning communities.

She has demonstrated her commitment to teaching and learning beyond her building by planning and facilitating
professional development for teachers and administrators throughout the DMPS K-12 IB Network of Schools, her
influence extending to educators and students from several other schools. In this capacity, she has worked to
create a model atmosphere of collaboration; never asking other teachers or leaders to do the work she isn’t willing
to do herself. Reflecting on her practice, and growing in her personal and professional life, are a part of Ms. Kuhl’s
fabric – she has prepared herself well for leadership positions.

It is difficult to summarize the impact Ms. Kuhl has had on Des Moines Public Schools’ students, teachers, and
families. She will be an asset to any educational community she joins -- her positive attitude, dedication to
students, and the thoroughness with which she fulfills her responsibilities is inspiring. While her absence at Des
Moines Schools will certainly be our loss, there is no doubt she will be an incredible leader wherever she is
employed.
contact me directly.

Olivia Howe
Des Moines Schools
International Baccalaureate Teacher Development Coordinator
olivia.howe@dmschools.org | P: 515-242-7523 | C: 515-450-1845