Kelly Kindell
Kelly Kindell is an accomplished educational and athletic leader with a deep-rooted passion for sports and student development. Growing up in a small town and graduating from a class of just 17, Kelly’s love for basketball earned her a full-ride scholarship and set the foundation for a lifelong commitment to athletics and leadership. She brings this same drive and dedication to her professional roles, where she thrives on creating opportunities for students and staff to grow, excel, and succeed.
Currently, Kelly serves as the Associate Athletic Director for Morris Public School District, where she oversees athletic programs, coordinates school events, and collaborates with staff and community partners to ensure smooth execution and impactful experiences. Previously, she spent nearly eight years as a middle-level math teacher and assistant girls’ basketball coach at Dewar Public Schools, developing her skills in coaching, mentoring, and educational leadership.
Kelly holds a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Administration from Oral Roberts University, where she was a key member of the women’s basketball team, and a Master’s degree in Sports Administration from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. She is also certified as a secondary school teacher in Physical Education and Mathematics and holds a Commercial Driver’s License.
Known for her meticulous planning, collaborative approach, and ability to manage multiple moving parts, Kelly is currently pursuing her principal certification to further expand her impact in education. Her career is marked by a dedication to guiding students, staff, and athletes toward excellence both on and off the court.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• Secondary School Teacher Certification
• Oral Roberts University - Bachelors
• Southeastern Oklahoma State University - Masters
• Oklahoma Coaches Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I always played basketball, and earning a full-ride scholarship to play has always been my joy. I believe in constantly moving up and staying driven. Currently, I’m working on my principal certification to continue growing in my career and making a meaningful impact in education. One of my proudest achievements was coaching the girls’ basketball team to the area consolation game, which is the final game before the state championship. Even though the team didn’t win, I was proud to be part of their success in reaching that stage. That season, the team had a 21-9 record, and it was incredibly joyful to watch the seniors finish strong.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to have patience, especially when working with kids—give them grace. As a woman in this field, which is predominantly male, it’s important to stand tall and advocate for yourself. This advice has guided me throughout my career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face is time management—balancing work, family life, and personal time while avoiding burnout. Staying organized and prioritizing effectively is essential in this profession.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
When I was a sophomore in college, I had quit the basketball team because I felt burnt out. After going home, I realized I had made a huge mistake and reached out to my coach to come back. Although I had to sit out a few games and do extra laps, that second chance changed everything for me. It taught me the value of giving others second chances, and I carry that lesson into my personal and professional life.