My name is Leslie Downing, and I am a Kindergarten Teacher at Langston Hughes.  This will be my 17h year as a Langston Bobcat, but a teacher for 32 years.  I have taught K-3, but have enjoyed most of those years teaching in a full day kindergarten classroom.  I absolutely love being an educator because  I am a lifelong learner.   I received my Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Emporia State University, a Master's in Elementary Education from Kansas State University and 12 hours of Special Education from the University of Kansas. I have been honored to receive Sunflower's Teacher of the Month and Teacher of the Year, and Lawrence Public School's Elementary Master Teacher 2016 while teaching for USD 497. Continuing to learn and grow in education excites and motivates me always to strive to do the best for all of my students. Outside my school time, I get to enjoy my immediate/extended family and all the adventures that brings daily. I love being a Langston Hughes Bobcat!