Kim O’Daniel has spent more than two decades shaping young minds as a Pre-K teacher, but her most fulfilling classroom has always been the sidelines of a soccer field. Her son, Caleb, an energetic junior at Weatherford High School, has been kicking a soccer ball around for as long as she can remember. Watching him play isn’t just a pastime; it’s a passion.
During the school year, Kim’s calendar fills quickly. There are lesson plans to write, crafts to prepare, and twenty tiny pairs of shoes to tie. Then after school, there’s another role waiting, soccer mom, supporter, booster, and sometimes equipment manager. But she wouldn’t trade it for the world.
“During soccer season, there’s not much free time,” she says with a smile. “But I enjoy going to my son’s games, so I don’t mind it at all.”
Her love for education extends beyond the classroom and into her parenting. She knows that sports are valuable, but she keeps Caleb focused on what comes first.
“Yes, I think it’s very important for kids to know what their priorities are. Academics should be the top priority, but sports teach responsibility, teamwork, and discipline, skills they’ll use all their lives.”
Kim doesn’t just cheer from the bleachers; she’s involved at every level. She joined the Soccer Booster Club years ago when her oldest son, Hunter, was in middle school, and today she serves as the club’s secretary, helping wherever she’s needed, often in the concession stand.
“I help out in any way that I can,” she explains. “I make sure Caleb has everything he needs to be successful, and I like to go to all of the home and away games.”
When asked what she loves most about Weatherford High, Kim’s eyes light up.
“I love all of the opportunities my boys have had here,” she says. “There are so many things for students to get involved in, academics, sports, fine arts, and vo-tech. I went to a small school and didn’t have all those choices.”
For Kim O’Daniel, raising young learners and young athletes go hand in hand; both take patience, dedication, and heart. And she gives all three, every single day.
