Today’s #TeacherTuesday is Kathy Rafter, the second person in the dynamic duo who was honored in the recent National Liberty Museum‘s Teacher as Hero contest. She and Cara Gimbel are both teachers in the A.C.T.I.V.E. Academy Transition Program for 18 to 21-year old students at Abington Senior High School. The curriculum helps the students to better transition from high school into an employment environment because of the important skills and connections they make as they gain confidence and develop a strong self-concept as responsible and professional citizens.
Since Kathy first became a special education teacher, she has been both inspired and honored by the opportunity to help students to realize their potential and to be a consistent part of their journey. She says, “The daily challenges that the students in the A.C.T.I.V.E. Academy face never gets in the way of their perseverance to be successful.” And she adds, “Making connections and forming partnerships within the community, and teaching students to become more independent in everyday living skills like cooking, travel training, and working in community has been extremely gratifying.”
One parent said, “I truly adore both of these wonderfully amazing women!! Thanks to them, their diligence and guidance (along with Casey Chakler), my daughter is #Arcadia bound this fall!!
What other educators are so inspired by the students who make them smile daily? Message us and we’ll feature them in an upcoming #TeacherTuesday.