Joy Kirr

Joy Kirr is sought after for her workshops on how to bring Genius Hour into the classroom and why it is vital. She has been learning alongside her students since 1995. Currently teaching 7th graders in a truly supportive district in Arlington Heights, IL, Joy is passionate about students owning their own learning. She enjoys being known as a “Genius Hour Evangelist,” and is grateful for how her students have stepped up their learning while giving and receiving feedback in lieu of grades. Presenting around the nation has helped Joy spread the message that educators need to strive for all children to become lifelong learners.

Joy earned her bachelor’s degree in special education with an emphasis on deaf and hard-of-hearing in 1995, her master’s degree in reading from Northern Illinois University in 2002, and has been a National Board Certified Teacher since 2007.