Staff Spotlight: Kim Killinger and Tammy Salyer, a library force

by Amy Haggerty

The terrific team of Kim Killinger and Tammy Salyer keep the Jr/Sr High School library running smoothly. The duo work opposite schedules to ensure the library is always staffed. Both women, extremely well liked by building staff and students, are constantly busy answering questions or monitoring the flow of incoming or outgoing students.

Students with Chromebook issues contact either woman to receive a loaner while repairs are made. Those taking online classes for high school credit with Michigan Virtual also fall under their supervision in the library.

Kim Killinger, who moved to Stockbridge from Pennsylvania during her eighth-grade year, has worked for the district for 14 years. She began as a paraprofessional and worked as a substitute teacher before accepting a position in the library.

After high school Killinger attended Baker College and earned an Associates degree in Accounting and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Leadership. In 1998 she married Jeremy Killinger, the current Varsity Football Coach. They have three children: Alexis (17), Peyton (15), and Evan (9).

Killinger considers her family her greatest accomplishment in life. She instills lots of love and tells her children to “always, always, do the right thing, even if it’s the hardest to do!” She offers this advice to students: “Do your best, every single day, don’t let others define who you are, and stay true to yourself.” She is grateful her job allows her to be present for her kids’ after-school events and given her the flexibility to attend their sports events.

Tammy Salyer grew up in Stockbridge and attended Stockbridge Community Schools. She credits her mother as the greatest influence in her life and says she taught her to “care for others, and always be kind.”

In 1982 Tammy Wireman married John Salyer, and they have two grown children, John (33) and Hope (23, a board member and original director of the Stockbridge Community News). Salyer as well considers her growing family to be her greatest accomplishment in life. She loves the role of grandparent to Johnny and Henry.

“I love that more than anything!” she smiles.

Years ago, a phone call from Superintendent Bruce Brown asked Salyer to fill in for two weeks. Then Librarian Debi Overbey asked her to continue helping, and seventeen years later, Salyer is still employed in that capacity.

“Stockbridge Schools is a wonderful place to work!” she said.

Salyer, an excellent listener and popular go-to for motherly advice, greets students with her characteristic smile as they approach her desk. SHS Staff also find her welcoming and a positive, trusted confidant.

She would like students to keep in mind that worrying is like a rocking chair, it keeps you busy, but never gets you anywhere.

“Spread your wings and fly,” she advises. “You can do anything you set your mind to!”

Most days, these two women can be found in the library, helping students navigate life or find information to assist in their learning adventures at Stockbridge Jr/Sr High School.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email