Growing up in rural Oklahoma, Sydnee (Gerken) Gifford has always had a deep connection to agriculture. From working on her family’s farm to participating in FFA to showing livestock. A 2016 Kingfisher High School graduate, Sydnee attended Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kansas on a Livestock Judging scholarship. After obtaining her associate degree in 2018 she attended Oklahoma State University receiving a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science in December of 2020. Sydnee also has a minor in Agricultural Business and Economics. You would think her path seemed destined for the agricultural industry. However, life had a way of leading her down an unexpected, yet fulfilling, road—education.
Her teaching journey began as a substitute teacher. The gig was meant to be temporary, a way to contribute while she determined her long-term career. After spending days and days in classrooms she felt the Lord tugging on her heartstrings. It was a calling, a spiritual nudge, that she could not ignore. Teaching is where she is meant to be, at least for the time being.
Taking a leap of faith, Sydnee pursued becoming an educator and joined the Kingfisher Upper Elementary staff this past fall as the 5th-grade English teacher. With the help of a supportive team of teachers, and administrative leaders, she has been able to navigate the ups and downs that come with teaching, especially your first year.
One of Sydnee’s favorite teaching moments thus far is introducing her students to a special guest. A calf they affectionately named Jeff Jojo. What began as a simple introduction to animal care quickly evolved into a hands-on learning experience, blending her love for agriculture with her newfound passion for teaching. The students not only learned about responsibility and science but also developed a curiosity that extends beyond the classroom.
Outside of teaching, Sydnee enjoys a life deeply rooted in her family and agricultural passions. She and her husband, Ryan, whom she married in May 2024, spend their free time helping with farm work, setting up greenhouses, and watching sports and rodeos. Though she has not always been a sports fan, Ryan’s enthusiasm has rubbed off on her, making game nights a new shared joy.
Sydnee currently helps with the afterschool program “STARS” and plans to become more involved this summer. She also intends to pursue alternative certification to become a full-fledged teacher. As the year goes on it has become apparent that teaching is not merely a job but a path she was meant to walk, a journey that had chosen her as much as she had chosen it.
Sydnee’s journey to teaching may seem a bit unorthodox but hers is a journey of discovery, faith, and dedication. From an aspiring agricultural professional to a devoted teacher, she proves that sometimes, the best journeys are the ones we never planned. And for her students, she hopes to inspire that same belief.
Welcome to teaching, Sydnee! We’re so proud of your willingness to accept the call and serve the students of your community. Kingfisher and the KUE are lucky to have you!
