When Kim Noller, a proud Goddard High School graduate from the Class of 1986 and accomplished author and singer, returned to USD 265, she brought home a powerful reminder of what is possible. Standing in front of students at both Explorer Elementary School and Apollo Elementary School, Noller shared her story through music, storytelling, and the pages of her book Big! (check it out online or purchase for yourself here: https://a.co/d/05btoRfB). Noller isn’t just a published author, she is a talented singer, whose website is https://kimnollermusic.com/ and whose music streams on all platforms (linked below the article for easy reference). From the very first note she sang, students were captivated. Laughter filled the gym, hands shot into the air, and wide-eyed curiosity turned into full participation as students leaned into every moment of her visit.
Through interactive songs, colorful visuals, and the heartfelt message woven throughout Big!, Kim created an experience that went beyond a typical school assembly. Students didn’t just listen, they moved, they sang, they connected. In one especially powerful moment at the end, a young student wrapped her arms around Noller in a spontaneous hug, capturing exactly what the day meant, a sense of belonging, encouragement, and joy. Interested parties can even purchase the hardback version of the book locally, through Watermark Books or by visiting this webpage: https://watermarkbooks.com/book/2370001983571. The energy in the room was electric as students gathered together, lifting bright parachutes and voices alike, fully immersed in the experience. Teachers shared that they had rarely seen this level of engagement, describing the visit as meaningful, memorable, and truly impactful.
Opportunities like this matter. When students see someone who once walked the same hallways return having pursued their dreams, it makes those dreams feel real and within reach. Kim Noller’s visit was more than a performance, it was a living example of creativity, courage, and purpose. Her message will linger far beyond the final song, reminding students that their own stories are still being written, and that one day, they too can come back and inspire the next generation.
Find Kim Noller’s music by clicking on the links below!
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0xwfxpVWur2EuKkYfKiVjy?si=yKn9ll6ORkOStfTfDISiCQ
Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kim-noller/1707289713
YouTube: