Brief on Kathy Steinmetz for publication purposes:

            The Minnesota chapter (MNCLD) of the Council for Learning Disabilities (CLD) has named Kathy Steinmetz of Bagley Junior Senior High School in rural northern Minnesota as their Dixie Holen Teacher of the Year.  Each year, CLD recognizes outstanding teachers who consistently provide quality instruction to students with learning disabilities. These teachers, selected by local chapters, provide direct services to students. They are dedicated to implementing evidence-based instructional practices and collaborating with classroom teachers and other service providers to greatly improve the quality of education for all struggling learners.

            Kathy is a critical leader and mentor in the Special Education Department at BHS where she also serves as the chairperson for the Parent Involvement Committee. As her principal, Helen Kennedy, indicates, Kathy is " willing let go of the status quo and embrace change if it is in the best interest of children …(who) responds quickly and appropriately to parents and their concerns. She finds ways to motivate, encourage, and reward them, which piques their curiosity and inspires them to keep trying". Fellow special educator, Debi Christensen, points out that Kathy's concern for student's future is at the heart of all she does. Many young lives have been touched because of her devotion. Her influence has bettered our society and former students will credit her for making them see their potential and place in it". Denny Ulmer, Special Education Director, commends Kathy for her involvement in the implementation of Read 180

" resulting in significant growth in reading skills for her students". Dr. Julie Gartrell, past president of MNCLD and CLD, notes that Kathy is " a caring and engaging teacher, a well-informed special educator, a continuous advocate for students with all special needs, and a dedicated supporter of the field of learning disabilities". Currently Kathy is a member of the MNCLD Executive Board, serving as a regional representative for Northern Minnesota. Kathy represents many aspects of the broad requirements placed on the shoulders of LD teachers today, no matter where they live or the students they

service.

            Recipients of the CLD Teacher of the Year award will be recognized at annual international conference on October 10th in Austin, Texas.