MASD Teacher is an All-Pro
Posted on 05/08/2024
Reid Elementary Autistic Support Teacher Named
An All-Pro Teacher
May 6-10, is National Teacher Appreciation Week and while all teachers are professionals in their own right, here at Middletown, Reid Elementary School Autistic Support teacher Kathie Gaedy has earned the distinction of All-Pro Teacher of the Year from the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro Teachers Program, in partnership with Nouryon, a global specialty chemicals leader, honors exceptional Kindergarten through twelfth grade teachers in the tri-state region for their commitment to education. This is the tenth year for the program. Gaedy was nominated by Matthew Fagan, a parent of one of her long-time students.
This fall, Gaedy, along with nine others, were selected as All-Pro Teachers for demonstrating outstanding educational drive, innovation in the classroom, and community ownership. In recognition of being selected as an All-Pro Teacher, Gaedy received a personalized Eagles jersey, the opportunity to attend the 49ers vs Eagles game, and attend a special recognition ceremony which included a behind-the-scenes tour of Lincoln Financial Field.
This spring at a ceremony with the Eagles organization, Gaedy was selected from the 10 All-Pro Teachers and named 2023 Nouryon All-Pro Teacher of the Year. In recognition of all her accomplishments, The Middletown Area School District received a check for $8,000 from the Eagles. Pictured below is Gaedy with Dr. Chelton Hunter, MASD Superintendent, and Dr. Amy Rehmeyer, Reid Elementary Principal.
Gaedy has been teaching life skills support and autistic support for 33 years, 23 of them as a Blue Raider. Before beginning her career teaching intellectual disabilities and autism, she taught and interpreted
for deaf students.
She said she was extremely honored to have been chosen as an all All-Pro Teacher and knew from an early age she wanted to teach children with special needs. She strongly believes every student deserves a teacher who believes they can do anything they put their mind to.
The most important thing to her is for her students to feel safe and loved. She added it is important for her to ensure each student develops and makes progress academically, socially, and emotionally and strives to nurture their self-esteem so they have the courage and self-confidence to conquer any struggles they may be faced with now or in the future.
She also believes that students deserve a teacher that will provide a safe and encouraging environment where they can grow and learn. “I am their biggest cheerleader and encourage them in any way possible to do their best,” said Gaedy. “I love seeing the light bulbs go off when they grasp a concept and see the progress they make each day. I do not focus on the things they can't do; I only see and encourage them to do their best and become proud of their accomplishments.”
Gaedy has been impressed by the Philadelphia Eagles' dedication to the community and their support for autism. One of her students with autism was invited to a Philadelphia Eagles' practice through the Eagles Autism Foundation and the Philadelphia Eagles' cheerleaders and Swoop practiced with her student's local Cheerabilties team, Cheer Tyme Inspiration.
