We’re thrilled to highlight two additional educators as #TeacherTuesdays— Cara Gimbel and Kathy Rafferty — who were honored in the National Liberty Museum‘s Teacher as Hero contest recently. Members of the Abington Education Association, and teachers of the special education initiative, A.C.T.I.V.E. Academy Transition Program, they work with 18-21 year old students at Abington Senior High School to help them to learn vocational and life skills.
Today’s focus is on Cara and we’ll highlight Kathy next week because there is so much to say about each of them! Cara, who did not attend public school as a child says, “Public schools provide so many different types of opportunities for students to excel and contribute. There is such a diverse group of young people coming together.” And she adds, “I think you learn a lot about acceptance and understanding when you attend a school that embraces everyone, regardless of where they come from or who they are.”
Cara applauds her students’ positive attitudes and increased confidence as they try new things. She says, “They get the opportunity to practice skills (independent living, vocational, travel, interpersonal) in a safe space, where they can learn from their mistakes and ask for help, without fear of failure or disappointment. I think the best way to learn is by doing.”
What other educators amaze you every day? Let us know and we’ll feature them in an upcoming #TeacherTuesday post.