Mrs. Kim Buckner is rarely seen at Licking Elementary without her student sidekick. Together, this dynamic duo moves class to class, through therapy sessions, into the cafeteria for meals, and back to the classroom for afternoon snack. Mrs. Buckner is rarely seen without a friendly smile and small hands gripping her own. Described as patient, kind, helpful, dependable, and extra special, Mrs. Buckner is a critically important employee of Licking R-VIII School District. For these reasons, we are proud to feature Mrs. Kim Buckner as our October Spotlight Staff Member!
Mrs. Buckner graduated from Licking High School in 1998. Mrs. Buckner remembers working at Hood’s Frosty Treat while in high school, and then working at Stage Department Store in Rolla after graduation.
Even before graduating, Mrs. Buckner knew she had met the love of her life in Herbert Shawn Buckner, and they were married in 1997, during Mrs. Buckner’s junior year. In 2006, the Buckners welcomed their first-born, Chloe, and Mrs. Buckner transitioned to being a stay-at-home mother. The Buckner’s second child, Zoey was born in 2008, and their son, Ezra, was born in 2013. When Ezra was ready to attend kindergarten, Mrs. Buckner started working at Licking Elementary as a paraprofessional. Mrs. Buckner works one-on-one with an elementary child, and they have been school partners for four years now.
Mrs. Buckner says she loves her job because of her close connection with students…especially her elementary companion. “There is lots of moving around, and we are always on the go until 2:05 PM – when we finally get a break for a few minutes,” said Mrs. Buckner.
“I love helping all of the kids…and my coworkers,” commented Mrs. Buckner. “Sure, there are challenges such as knowing students’ moods day to day and whether the day will go smoothly or be a little more hectic, but I really love it,” added Mrs. Buckner.
Mrs. Buckner and her family reside in Licking where Mrs. Buckner has lived her entire life. In fact, Kim Buckner’s family has been in Licking for three generations! The family has several cats which Mrs. Buckner claims are Zoey’s, and a German Shepherd mix dog named Natasha. Mrs. Buckner enjoys camping, fishing, and spending time with her family. Licking R-VIII School District is thankful for the service of Mrs. Buckner, and we certainly hope Mrs. Buckner and her fourth-generation residents continue to be community members long into the future!