Doris Keeler

Contributing Writer
Doris Keeler - Photo by Sarah Cowart
Doris Keeler - Photo by Sarah Cowart

Doris is an 8th grade language arts teacher who specializes in teaching students the art of writing. Under her direction, the writing plan at her middle school has resulted in 98% of the students writing at or above grade level. Her greatest pleasure comes in seeing students of all levels achieve success in their writing. Doris believes in the power of words and has worked with students in the past to publish a book of teenage issues: “Been there, done that.” In addition to her achievements in writing instruction, Doris is also the coordinator of the school’s International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program which provides students with a global view of education.

Prior to her teaching career, Doris worked in television and radio for 15 years. Her last job in the business was a weekly half-hour television show that focused on children and family issues (Family Works, WMFE-TV) covering issues such as education, poverty, gangs, domestic violence, homeschooling, the value of arts in schools, and the list goes on. During her time in television and radio, Doris received numerous School Bell Awards through the state of Florida’s teacher’s unions for her coverage on education issues, including best overall education coverage (2 years in a row).

She also wrote numerous articles for the Central Florida Family Magazine (now out of publication). Those stories included: “Our Kids’ Health,” “A Fresh Start,” “Kids and the Arts,” “Battling the Bug,” “Siblings as Friends,” “Marriages that Work,” “So Much Fun,” “Mentoring’s Magic Touch,” “Raising Special-Needs Children,” “The Private School Choice,” “Aunts, Uncles & Other Heroes,” and “Immunizations.” In addition, Doris has also written “A Good Investment, Teaching Kids how to Invest in the Stock Market.”

Doris’ hobbies include writing, reading, drawing, scrapbooking, and genealogy.

Latest Articles

Classroom Bell Work Activities for September
School is back in full swing and students are now into their routines. Keep up the momentum with fun bell work activities for September.
Aug 9, 2010 - Doris Keeler
Bell Work Activities for August
Ideas for bell work activities are as close as the calendar. Any given month can reveal dozens of opportunities for any class.
Aug 8, 2010 - Doris Keeler
Back to School Icebreakers
Going back to school can be difficult, especially when some students don't know anyone. These icebreaker activities will help students and teachers.
Jul 30, 2010 - Doris Keeler
Fun Writing Activities for Kids
Getting kids to write, either in or out of school, can be challenging. With the right activities, their interest will improve and so will their writing.
Jul 18, 2010 - Doris Keeler
Making a Travel Journal
Vacations aren't just taken in the summer anymore. Whether they're close by or abroad, a travel journal will keep the memories alive long after the trip.
Jul 18, 2010 - Doris Keeler
A Carnival Birthday Party for Kids
Looking for a low-cost, entertaining party idea for kids? A carnival-themed birthday can be just the ticket to non-stop fun at a fraction of the cost.
Apr 25, 2010 - Doris Keeler
Valentine Cards in the Classroom
School children around the country exchange valentine cards every year. Why not take it a step further and have them make cards for some unsuspecting recipients?
Feb 7, 2010 - Doris Keeler
How to Develop a Child's Love for Words
For some children, putting words down on paper can be a terrifying task. Teaching them how to appreciate words can lead to a lifelong love for anything written.
Dec 29, 2009 - Doris Keeler
Creative Writing as Bell Work
When students are told they are going to write, many of them moan in distress. Writing doesn't have to be that way, especially as bell work activities.
Nov 22, 2009 - Doris Keeler
Figurative Language as Bell Work
Bell work in an English class is an opportunity to teach lessons on just about any concept. Figurative language is one of those concepts and can be used as needed.
Nov 22, 2009 - Doris Keeler