Kathy Steinhoff holds a bachelor's and a master's degree in math education and curriculum instruction from the University of Missouri. She spent 34 years as a math teacher in Columbia Public Schools, earning recognition for her teaching excellence. Steinhoff served as president of the Columbia chapter of the National Education Association for six years and retired in 2022. She has since been elected to the Missouri House of Representatives, where she has sponsored education-related legislation and advocated for gender-affirming care and public education.

Kathy Steinhoff's political identity is rooted in a steadfast advocacy for public education and civil liberties, marked by a willingness to challenge conventional party lines. Her legislative focus on education and participation in student-led protests against gun violence reflect a deeply ingrained commitment to student safety and learning environments. Steinhoff's vocal opposition to restricting library access for minors, coupled with her support for gender-affirming care, showcases a progressive stance that prioritizes individual freedoms and parental decision-making. This unique blend of progressive advocacy and a protective stance on civil liberties suggests a highly localized approach to policymaking, deeply influenced by her extensive background in education.