Step into Deb Bolitho's fourth-grade classroom and it may look like controlled chaos, but that is by design. Bolitho tries to incorporate movement into as many lessons as possible and it is not uncommon to see students racing balloons across the classroom with answers in their heads to get the approval of their favorite teacher.

“Incorporating movement and activity into the regular coursework really helps with the learning process,” said Bolitho.

But her students, a class that she also had as third-graders, are attentive and focused once the activity ends. This is in large part, due to the relationship that Bolitho has built with them over the course of two years.

“Building relationships with kids — that's how you motivate them,” explained the 21-year teaching veteran.

Bolitho doesn't believe the old adage that students don't need to like you, only respect you in the classroom.

“If the students don't like you and respect you, they don't want to work for you. I attended a Spence Rodgers conference recently that really confirmed that for me. I try to build on the student's strengths, encourage them and incorporate humor,” said Bolitho.

Bolitho is in her 12th year of teaching in Garfield Re-2 including 10 years at Kathryn Senor Elementary and two years at Elk Creek Elementary. Raised in Minnesota, Bolitho became a dental assistant in the 10th grade for now-Glenwood Springs dentist Dr. Robert Murray. After Dr. Murray moved his practice to Glenwood, Bolitho worked summers for him and got a teaching job at Carbondale Elementary. Now settled in the valley, she and her husband Norm love to travel, and spend most of their free time at their two children's multiple school and extra curricular events.

One of Bolitho's most unusual life moments came when she gave up her first teaching job to go to Kenai, Alaska, and work in a fish cannery. While there, she lived in a tent for three months.

Elk Creek Elementary teacher Deb Bolitho is Who's Who in Re-2!