KIM CODY
Principal, Redwater Junior High School

“It’s the people and relationships that make life meaningful.”

For the past nine years, Principal Kim Cody has led Redwater Junior High with dedication and gratitude. A seasoned educator of 42 years, she spent 28 years teaching high school math in New Boston and Foreman before transitioning to administration.

“I could not talk about my career in education without mentioning Ms. Anita Baker,” Kim said. “She was instrumental in my decision to become a math teacher. Math wasn’t always my strongest subject, but she made it fun and approachable. She showed me that teaching isn’t just about the subject; it’s about loving students for who they are and meeting them where they are. Through her, I learned not only to love math, but also to love my students fully.”

As a teacher, Kim saw her students face challenges that far surpassed even the hardest math problems. Trauma and anxiety occupied a daunting amount of space in her classrooms. Kim said that helping students carry these hardships was—and remains—her greatest professional struggle.

“[Schools] don’t have enough trained professionals, and school counselors—while incredible—often don’t have enough specialized training to address every need,” she said. “As educators, we do our best to provide support, create safe spaces, and connect students to resources, but it’s an ongoing challenge. The hardest part of my job is not taking these issues home with me, and that seems to be an impossible task. Sometimes it’s less about overcoming and more about persevering—staying present, learning, and finding ways to meet each student’s needs despite the difficulties.”

The presence Kim once offered her math students now serves Redwater Junior High students, faculty, and staff. While she brings decades of experience to her role, Kim’s greatest attribute is her ability to connect with the people she leads.

“Relationships are at the heart of everything I do,” she said. “Whether in my family or in my school, I believe people thrive when they feel known, supported, and valued.”

Kim described Archie, her husband of 44 years, as the best man she knows. submitted photo

The proof is in the pudding: in 2020, Redwater Junior High was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School, an honor previously bestowed by the U.S. Department of Education to both “high-performing” schools and schools that made significant strides in closing achievement gaps. RJH received the title because “students who were previously behind made significant gains, the school reduced inequities, and improvement was strong enough to be recognized nationally,” Kim explained.

“As a principal, this is a huge honor. It signals strong instruction, intervention systems, and campus-wide focus on all learners.” Kim emphasized that the work of her predecessor Lee Ann Corbin contributed to the recognition, as well as the ongoing work of Redwater faculty and staff. “It has been a privilege to be part of such a dedicated group of educators who work tirelessly for students each day,” she said.

Kim and her husband, Archie, have been married for 44 years. They have two children: Kayleigh (36) is a nurse in North Little Rock, and Adam (31) is a business analyst in Los Angeles, California. When school isn’t in session, Kim prefers to be with Archie and her kids.

“My husband is the love of my life, my best friend, and the best man I know,” she said. “We are incredibly family-oriented, and our children mean everything to us. We cherish every chance to be with them, spend time together, and support them as they pursue their lives. Whether we’re traveling or just enjoying each other’s company, it’s the people and relationships that make life meaningful.”

Both off- and on-the-clock, relationships remain at the center of Kim’s life. “The students have made such a difference in my life, and the teachers and staff members have become much more than coworkers—they have become friends and, in many ways, like family,” she said. “I feel incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to serve in this capacity, whether as a teacher or as a principal. These experiences are something I will always cherish.”

FSLM ASKED KIM:

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a lawyer when I grew up.

If you could speak one sentence of wisdom to your past self, what would you say?
Forgive yourself, and cut yourself some slack.

Name a girl or woman you admire.
Phyllis Cummings inspires me as an educator, person, and friend.

How Phyllis Cummings Sees Kim:

“Kim Cody is a truly deserving honoree for Tribute to Women, as she embodies selflessness, strength, and unwavering compassion. As educators, Kim and I first met in a professional capacity, and over the past nine years as coworkers, our relationship has grown into a lifelong friendship built on love, trust, and mutual respect. Kim’s character shines not only in her professional achievements but also in the genuine care she shows to those around her. During some of my most difficult moments, Kim was a steady source of comfort and support. She stood beside me when my mother passed away and offered encouragement and care when my husband underwent critical surgery. Her kindness extends far beyond our friendship; she consistently supports others in our inner circle by providing meals, lending a listening ear, and offering thoughtful encouragement. Her actions reflect a heart devoted to serving others. As a woman of God, Kim’s faith is evident in her daily life. We have often prayed together—not only for each other and our families, but also for the staff and students entrusted to our care. Professionally, Kim is an exceptional school principal who always places student safety and wellbeing at the forefront while maintaining high expectations for both academics and behavior. She leads with integrity, compassion, and purpose, setting a positive tone for staff and students alike. Her giving nature, kindness, and dedication are only a few of the many reasons I am honored to nominate this fellow educator and cherished friend for Tribute to Women, as she exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding woman.”

Feature Stories

Tribute to Women: Kim Cody