From the Classroom: Cathy King Shares Her  Journey

From the Classroom is a Q&A series from Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) that spotlights educators who shape, inspire, and empower our students every day. In each feature, teachers share—in their own words—why they chose this profession, the lessons that bring joy to their classrooms, and the moments that remind them why they love what they do. 

Meet Cathy King, a veteran educator at Ernie Pyle School 90. Cathy was recently honored as a December 2025 IPS Luminary Award recipient. This recognition is awarded to individuals who exemplify IPS values through strong leadership, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to uplifting students, staff, and the broader IPS community.

Cathy was recognized under the Students First – “Student-Centered Excellence” category for consistently prioritizing student needs, setting high expectations, and supporting student success both inside and outside the classroom.

Q–What inspired you to become an educator, and how did you get started in the profession?

A–I was inspired by my PE teacher, Cathy Cassel, in grade school. She also coached me in every sport.  She influenced me to coach and teach physical education. She even supported me by coming to a few of my college tennis matches. To this day, we are still in contact.  She is my role model. She was a strong positive influence in my life. I have a very special place in my heart for her.

I got started in this profession because I love kids, enjoy sports, and lead an active life. I wanted to share this enthusiasm and passion with others in hopes they would enjoy being active through movement. I wanted to create a positive impact and develop the whole mind and body. You have fun all day and every day, so why not share that fun!

Q–What subject or grade do you currently teach, and what do you love most about it?

A–I teach physical education to Pre-K through fifth grade. I love LOTS about teaching PE.  There is so much positive energy going on. Teaching PE allows you to be active in a high-energy area, which can be indoors or outdoors.  Teaching PE allows you interact with ALL the grades. So, you get to interact with all the students!

With the enthusiasm, the hugs, the smiles, the you are so pretty and the eagerness to please from my students, to the watching each of my students develop and grow with each class to the "AHA" moments!  It is such a rewarding experience. It is truly the best job ever!  

Q–Describe your teaching style—how do you connect with students and keep them engaged in the classroom?

A–I provide fun, enjoyable activities using music to boost energy and constant movement while enhancing learned skills in a positive, warm environment. The students really get a good workout and improve upon their learned skills without knowing it because they are having fun.  

My goal is constant movement!  The students are engaged through routines, clear instructions, and building positive relationships.  My students are given choice time where they can pick any ball or equipment to play with.  This allows them to experiment with all kinds of skills. This is their favorite.

I do many group activities where the students work on team building, and no student is singled out for lack of skills.  It is cooperative learning. Every student is successful and improves at their ability. I build positive relationships with my students. I make sure PE continues to be their favorite class!  Everyone is smiling.  The gym is such a warm and happy place.

Q–What’s a favorite lesson, project, or moment from the classroom that really brought out the best in your students?

A–My favorite lesson is archery.  Archery just about covers all PE-related benefits in and out of the gym and more. This has really taught them discipline and self-control.  This is an activity for all students of all physical abilities. Watching my students help each other and being patient with their peers has really warmed my heart. When one of my students finally hits the target, it is a class celebration!

Q–How do you encourage and inspire students to see their own potential and future success?

A–I encourage my students by praising them for their hard work and their own personal progress through positive feedback.  Each one of my students has set personal challenges where they can achieve personal success.  Through these personal achievable goals, it motivates them. With each student, I celebrate the small milestones and big achievements so they are encouraged to keep the energy flowing.

Also, I encourage my students to get involved with ALL the after-school enrichment classes that are available to expand and broaden their horizons.  I have PE/sport-related programs come in and work with my students to aid in this expansion.  This promotion offers diversity in PE and provides my students with a wide range of activities they normally would not be exposed to.

And, I encourage my students to get involved in team sports when applicable. I do my best to provide for my students anything that will help them in life now and going forward. Student's first! I give my students balls to take home to play with. I highly encourage movement and getting outside to move! 

Q–What would you tell someone considering a career in education today?

A–Do it! I would tell them that it is gratifying to see student excitement and growth.   You do make a tremendous impact. I have the best job in the world.  Teaching PE is the most rewarding career because it blends fun, fitness, and education.  This is one career that you leave the workplace feeling satisfied because so many awesome moments happen in a day, and you can't wait until the next day! The relationships you build with the students can carry on for life.  I have many former students that I still keep in contact with, and we have maintained this friendship.

Q–What teaching project are you excited about now? (For example: creating a greenhouse to teach biology).

A–I am excited about teaching all the kindergartners how to ride a bike.  We were blessed to receive 25 bikes with a donation from HDR through All Kids Bikes.   What comes to my mind is the book by Dr. Seuss, "Oh The Places You Will Go! It has opened a whole new world for them. What is also exciting is that this program will continue with the kindergartners year after year.  It will impact so many students!

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