By Cynthia Garcia | cynthia@burtnettmedia.com
If you'd like to nominate someone to be a Town Treasure, please scan the QR code and fill out the Google Form. It's easy, and we want to shine a light on these Town Treasures!
Teresa Kelley is a sixth generation Parker County resident who graduated from Springtown High School in 1988. She was elected to the Springtown ISD board of trustees in May 2025. For Kelley, it's a tremendous honor and a deeply personal privilege to serve on the school board.
"This community has given so much to me and to my family over the years, and it means a great deal to be able to give back by serving the place that helped shape who I am," Kelley said.
Kelley has spent 31 years in education including 20 years in Springtown ISD. She began her education career at Robinson ISD, where she taught and served as the varsity tennis coach. She later joined her husband, Mike Kelley, at Groesbeck ISD as an assistant tennis coach. She also taught second grade for two years before ultimately returning to Springtown in 1998.
Growing up, Kelley had many teachers who influenced her to go into the education pathway.
"I was fortunate to have many wonderful teachers throughout my time in Springtown ISD who inspired me to pursue a career in education. One who stands out in particular was my high school tennis coach, Nadine Ryan. The dedication and encouragement I experienced from teachers like her sparked my desire to do the same for others," Kelley said.
Kelley also served as a counselor at Eagle Heights Elementary in Azle ISD. She spent 19 years as a counselor for Springtown ISD, where she served Springtown Elementary for three years, Springtown Middle School for six years, and Springtown High School for 10 years. She retired from Springtown ISD in 2022 and currently works part-time as the CTE and College, Career, and Military Readiness Coordinator for Poolville ISD.
"While my roles throughout my career evolved from coach, to teacher, to counselor, my passion for helping students succeed and supporting families remained the constant thread throughout it all," Kelley said.
Although she retired, Kelley ran for school board to continue serving the district that has meant so much to her and her family.
"The greatest motivation was the opportunity to continue serving a district that has served my family and me so well. Being able to support students, teachers and families, while also serving as a bridge between the community and the schools I call home, felt like a meaningful way to give back. It is a small way for me to express gratitude for all that this district has meant to me," Kelley said.
Kelley says she admires the incredible dedication from everyone involved in the school district.
"Our students accomplish amazing things every day. Our teachers consistently go above and beyond, working tirelessly to meet the needs of every student. Our administrators juggle many responsibilities as they navigate state requirements while also building strong, positive campus cultures and supporting their teachers. I have always been inspired by the commitment shown by students who arrive early or stay late for practices, tutoring, or workouts — and by the directors, teachers and coaches who invest their time right alongside them to help students become the very best they can be," Kelley said.
