TC Cherry Elementary is thrilled to welcome Kara Northern to our first grade team! Kara may be new to our staff, but she’s no stranger to our school—she completed her student teaching at TC Cherry years ago and now says it feels like coming home. With 14 years in education and over a decade of experience teaching first grade, she brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and heart to our school family.
Originally from Oklahoma, Kara grew up moving across the South—living in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida—before settling in Bowling Green to earn her Education degree at WKU. She’s now lived in Bowling Green longer than anywhere else and even convinced her parents to move here, thanks to the draw of being near their grandchildren.
Kara holds two Master’s degrees—one in Literacy and one in Teacher Leadership with a focus on Mathematics. She’s also been trained in LETRS and is currently mentoring other educators through the program. Her background reflects a strong commitment to instructional excellence, especially in the foundational areas that matter most for young learners.
What drew Kara to TC Cherry? “I’m most excited about becoming part of a school community that clearly values connection, growth, and student success,” she shares. “TC Cherry has a reputation for fostering a warm, inclusive environment, and I’m truly looking forward to building relationships with students, families, and staff.”
Outside of the classroom, Kara enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family. She and her husband are on a mission to visit all 50 states before she turns 50—and she collects magnets from every stop along the way.
Welcome to TC Cherry, Kara! We’re so excited you’re joining our family.