Meet Your Trainer

Kim Simon’s philosophy on teaching is straightforward and deeply impactful. Echoing Madeline Hunter’s belief that “Kids don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” Kim emphasizes the importance of reaching students on a personal level before academic success can be achieved. In today’s classrooms, the subject matter often competes with the “drama” in students’ lives, and the key missing element is often a genuine connection with the students. Kim firmly believes that when students feel valued as individuals, they will work harder and challenge less.

As an educational consultant and national trainer, Kim Simon advocates for providing teachers with research-based, proven, and practical strategies that can be immediately implemented without discarding existing successful methods. She recognizes the multifaceted roles teachers play daily—mom, dad, nurse, counselor, teacher, advisor, judge, jury, and lawyer, among others—making theirs one of the toughest jobs in America.

Kim acknowledges the diverse backgrounds, cultures, cognitive abilities, assets, and experiences that students bring to the classroom. The “one size fits all” approach is outdated and ineffective. Furthermore, she understands the misconception, particularly among politicians, that students arrive at school ready and willing to learn. In reality, many students come to school unsocialized, influenced more by TV shows, video games, social media, and other external factors than by traditional social norms.

Kim Simon recognizes that while educators have limited influence over students’ lives from 4:00 PM to 8:00 AM, they can make a significant impact from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. She is dedicated to helping educators succeed through motivation, inspiration, humor, and practical stress management techniques. Most importantly, Kim leaves educators equipped with a wealth of proven, practical strategies they can apply immediately. Her commitment is rooted in her personal experience of being uplifted by a compassionate teacher, Mrs. Hannah, who helped her overcome low self-esteem and confidence—an experience that underscores the transformative power of an enthusiastic, well-prepared, and loving teacher.