Her Story
About Katrina
Katrina Wilkins is an experienced educator and elementary physical education teacher with nearly two decades of experience serving students in Oklahoma. She currently works with kindergarten through second-grade students, teaching physical skills while integrating lessons on health, nutrition, safety, and lifelong wellness. In addition to her role as an educator, she serves as a high school cheerleading coach at Ripley Public Schools, where she continues to mentor and support students through athletics and character development.
Katrina earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and Teaching from Oklahoma State University. Throughout her career, she has held multiple educational roles, beginning as a substitute teacher before becoming a kindergarten teacher in 2008 and later transitioning into physical education. Her teaching philosophy centers on the belief that education extends beyond the classroom, using hands-on experiences such as school gardening, healthy eating programs, and safety education activities to encourage students to develop lifelong healthy habits.
Passionate about student wellness and community engagement, Katrina specializes in physical education, health education, nutrition awareness, and safety instruction. She has contributed to wellness initiatives through Healthy Schools Oklahoma and TSET-supported programs while maintaining involvement with professional education organizations. Through her dedication to mentorship, advocacy, and student-centered learning, Katrina continues to make a meaningful impact by helping children build confidence, develop healthy behaviors, and reach their full potential.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Katrina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the influence of the people who shaped my passion for education and working with children. My grandmother, who was a special education teacher, inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a meaningful difference in students’ lives. My experiences coaching, leading sports camps, and working with children throughout my early years also helped me discover my passion for teaching. I have also been fortunate to learn from supportive mentors and school leaders who encouraged me to advocate for students and continue growing as an educator.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering education to understand that teaching is not always a high-income profession, especially in Oklahoma, but it is an incredibly high-value and rewarding career. The impact you have on children’s lives cannot be measured financially. Educators often become trusted role models and sources of support for students who may need guidance, encouragement, and stability. While it is important to plan financially and understand the realities of the profession, teaching provides a level of fulfillment that comes from helping children learn, grow, and overcome challenges.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in education today is teacher compensation, particularly in Oklahoma, where educators often face financial limitations despite the importance of their work. However, there are also significant opportunities through community partnerships, grants, and wellness initiatives that provide additional resources for schools. Programs such as Healthy Schools Oklahoma and TSET-supported initiatives allow educators to expand health, nutrition, and safety programming while creating stronger learning experiences for students.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are compassion, empathy, caring for children, and making a lasting positive impact. I believe education extends beyond academics and that every interaction with a student is an opportunity to build confidence, character, healthy habits, and a lifelong love of learning. I strive to create an environment where students feel supported while developing the skills they need to make healthy and safe choices.
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