An elementary educator has had a passion for teaching kids to read for more than 30 years, and she knew at age 11 that she wanted to be a teacher.

Corrine Tims, principal at Hawthorne Elementary School in Albert Lea, will retire at the end of this school year.

“I hope I’ve left my imprint on the lifelong skill of being a reader,” Tims said.

After nine years leading the staff at Hawthorne, Tims said she’s ready for a change of pace and to spend more time with her family.

“I want to spend more time with my grandkids,” Tims said.

Tims started out about 34 years ago. She has worked as a reading specialist and taught all grades kindergarten through sixth grade except fourth.

She taught in many small towns in western and southwestern Minnesota. She has taught in urban and rural settings, but liked Albert Lea for being between urban and rural.

Because she hadn’t taught in Albert Lea before becoming a principal, she said it took some time to develop relationships and connections — and not just with staff.

“I’m a strong believer in creating relationships with families,” Tims said. “It truly does take a village to raise a child.”

She’s taught her staff to create lasting relationships with parents, so they don’t just see each other at conferences. That has spurred events like Turkey Bingo and Floats and Fun, where families can gather and meet staff.

“They’re part of what makes our school great as well,” Tims said. “It’s a partnership.”

Tims plans to possibly pursue some college teaching in the future but is mostly looking forward to spending time with her three children, her grandchildren and her siblings who live in the area. She and her husband, Vincent, plan to keep living in the area and to do some traveling.

“It’s time to move on and try something new,” Tims said. “I’m not leaving because I’m tired of the profession.”

Though there have been challenges through the years, Tims feels like she did help her staff grow. Tims said she is thankful for all the families and children of Hawthorne, and for the district’s administration for the support through the years.

After more than 30 years teaching children she still loves the profession.

“There hasn’t been a day I don’t want to go to work; I feel privileged,” Tims said.

Corrine Tims
Age: not given
Address: Albert Lea
Livelihood: principal at Hawthorne Elementary School
Family: husband, Vincent; two sons, one daughter and five grandchildren
Interesting fact: Tims plays in the bell choir at Grace Lutheran Church in Albert Lea.