BRADENTON, Fla. — Krys Kolbe has been teaching physical education at St. Joseph Catholic School for 23 years.

She’s also the school’s athletic director. She was nominated as an A+ Teacher for always striving to inspire her students.

"Krys is one of those teachers that if I had the ability to duplicate her I would," said Deborah Suddarth, the school’s principal. "She is incredible."

Coach Kolbe said initially she wanted to be a doctor but quickly learned she was meant to be a teacher. She said she has always loved to play and being a physical education teacher allows her to do that every day.

"I love the kids," she said. "I love seeing their faces when they actually accomplish something that they never thought they’d accomplish like running longer than they ever could have thought they’d run."

She went on to say, "I love listening to the laughs and the screams on the playground because you know they’re having so much fun."

In her role as athletic director, she’s helping students reach their goals in the classroom and on the field.

"We work on the fundamental basic skills of the sport so that when they get to high school, they can learn the more advanced skills that will make them that much better," said Kolbe.

Coach Kolbe helps students with their academics and teaches them life skills. She says her role has evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic.

"My future role is to help the kids social and emotional, to try to get through life," she said. "To try to get through school. How to get along with people. And just be mentally healthy."

Do you know an amazing educator? Nominate them to be our next A+ Teacher! You can fill out the form on the right side of our A+ Teachers page.