Meet Our Teacher

The Heart of Unified Studies

Welcome to Unified Studies, where education meets passion, led by me, Kirsten Barksdale. As the owner and lead teacher, I bring a blend of experience, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to learning.

My love for teaching was cultivated early on in a household where education was paramount. With my father as a professor of Teacher Education, I was immersed in the world of pedagogy from a young age, naturally igniting my own passion for inspiring young minds. I was 14 when I first dreamt about having my own school.

A Diverse Educational Journey

I have homeschooled my seven children, taught Social Sciences online and at Unified Studies during the 2025/26 school year. I currently work for iCreate Collab. I also am a substitute teacher for Alpine School District. I participated in a transformative student exchange program in Peru and have had diverse experiences in employment. I have a masters degree on Human Resources that I earned at Utah State University in 2014. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and learning methods, which enriches my teaching approach with a global perspective.

Champion of Lifelong Learning

I strive to embody the spirit of lifelong learning. My husband and I co-own a photography business. I enjoy caring for chickens and gardening. I co-run a non-fiction book group for the past 10 years. I have taken several teacher education seminars and institutes around the U.S.

Creating an Engaging Classroom

In my classroom, curiosity is king. I strive to foster an environment where students are encouraged to explore, question, and engage deeply with subjects like history, geography, and anthropology.

Inspired by Nature

I have a deep love for the outdoors and it is integral to my life and teachings. Whether hiking through Utah’s picturesque landscapes or enjoying a peaceful reading session outdoors, I draw inspiration from nature. This passion is woven into the way I think about lessons, encouraging students to connect with and appreciate the world around them.

Aligned with Unified Studies’ Core Values

My philosophy aligns perfectly with Unified Studies’ mission to nurture well-rounded, curious, and engaged learners. I believe children, if guided correctly, can be forces for good where ever they go in life.