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March is Employee Appreciation Month! We’re celebrating our team members all month long by sharing their stories. Read more about Katharine McCracken, Special Education Teacher at our DuBois school, and how New Story Schools gives her the flexibility to be a teacher and a mother! 

What is your favorite thing about working here?  

My favorite thing about teaching at New Story Schools is how personalized I can make each student's instruction. We have very small class sizes, and I am able to give each student the attention they need to reach their goals. 

What keeps you coming to work each day? 

My coworkers. I know it's cliché, but we really do feel like a family. We all depend on each other to help all our students be successful every day. 

How do you make an impact on students’ lives?  

First and foremost, we are a safe space for all our students. They know that when they enter our school they will be met with love, attention, and access to basic needs such as breakfast, lunch, and hygiene items. Without these basic needs being met, students can't successfully learn.  

Which one of our BetterTogether values resonates with you most personally and why? (Integrity, Accountable, Collaborative, Inclusive, Supportive)  

Integrity. I am always straightforward and honest when communicating with my team and I expect the same from them. 

What does a “day in the life” look like for your role?  

A whirlwind. I am always up and moving around with my students. 

Can you talk a little bit about your career trajectory and what led you to where you are now?  

My number one priority right now is my growing family. I am a wife and mother to two amazing little girls. One of the best parts about working at New Story Schools as a teacher is the flexibility it allows me to focus on my family. At this time, I have no plans to advance my career, but in the future, I would love to have a role where I can focus on supervising and mentoring new teachers and staff. 

What has been your proudest moment or accomplishment in your role?  

My proudest moment at New Story Schools was being invited to take part in our Leadership Development Program. 

What is something about you that not many people know? 

I have four younger sisters. 

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