Willowdale Elementar

BIO: Barb Hove always knew she would have a career working with children. As a child she played school with other children, and as a high school student her first jobs included baby-sitting, taking care of children at a daycare, and working as a counselor at YMCA. After graduating from Northwest High School, Barb attended UNL and obtained her bachelor’s in elementary education with an early childhood endorsement. Since then, she has continued her education and received a master’s in reading from UNO and an ELL endorsement from Concordia University.

Barb began her teaching career with the Millard Public School District at Harvey Oaks Elementary, where she taught first grade for two years. During that time she offered her assistance with ordering books and curriculum materials for Willowdale Elementary, MPS’ newest school. In 1992, Barb joined Willowdale as a second grade teacher and taught at their satellite sites until the permanent location was finished a year later. Barb has just completed her sixteenth year as a second grade teacher at Willowdale.

FAMILY: Barb’s family includes her husband of 18 years, Alan, and their daughters Sarah, 14, and Emily, 11, as well as their nephew, Patrick, 16. The family also has a 3-year-old Red Beagle named Annie.

HOBBIES: Much of Barb’s free time is spent with her children and attending their sports activities. She also likes to find time for reading, photography, scrap booking and card making.

IN HER OWN WORDS: “Follow the golden rule wherever you are, whether with children or other adults.”

WORTHY RECOGNITION: “Mrs. Hove has touched our lives and hearts here at Willowdale. Her leadership with our staff, students, and parents is greatly appreciated.”—Susan Kelley, Willowdale Elementary Principal.