Barb Ely

Early Childhood
Early Learner Assistant

"If you've made up your mind you can do something, you're absolutely right."

Music plays an essential role in the life of Barb Ely.  She shares the joy of music with her Early Learner students whenever she can, in the classroom, the hallway, outside, everywhere.  And like her quotation, when Barb works with her students, she creatively teaches from the heart, bringing a bit of heaven to Oakhill.

A long-time resident of Gladstone, Missouri, Barb attended MWCC where she earned her Associates in Social Sciences.  She furthered her education by attending UMKC, receiving her Bachelors in Business Education.  Barb first became interested in teaching because it was appealing to be able to assist children in learning something that interests them, whatever that might be.  Barb knows and understands the struggle students might have with new learning.  She is determined to help each and every child learn, no matter how many different approaches and tries it takes.

During her precious spare time, Barb can be found spending time with her husband, their daughter, and Daisy Jane, their black and white shih tzu dog.  An accomplished musician, Barb enjoys singing with her band, playing guitar, and skillfully teaching others to play as well.  At other times, Barb enjoys watching her favorite movie, "Camelot," or "CSI: Miami."  

"Oakhill has the greatest kids!  They are so well behaved and so ready to learn."