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Teacher Highlight


Posted Date: 11/10/2020

Teacher Highlight
Kathryn Burgess, teaches 4th grade and serves as an instructional coach at Imagine North Lauderdale, Florida, part of Rod Sasse’s Group. A former student, Ms. Burgess always knew she would return to her “old stomping ground” where she attended elementary school. Here, she can truly make a difference in the lives of those who need an advocate to help them achieve their goals and better their lives.Her personal view of student achievement extends far beyond her own classroom. She sees all students on campus as ones she should work to impact. Ms. Burgess accomplishes this by modeling highly effective examples of School Excellence Plan (SEP) initiatives for colleagues. She also mentors new teachers, enabling them to observe her Marzano-aligned instruction, effective classroom management, and positive character development.Ms. Burgess holds several leadership positions on campus such as Teacher Instructional Coach, Professional Learning Community Facilitator, and Positive Character Development Committee Co-Chair. She also supports on-going student learning by participating as a Saturday School Teacher.Principal Erin Kelly describes her by stating, “She is EVERYTHING I have ever envisioned and hope for on behalf of students. There is no limit to the actions Ms. Burgess takes to ensure she embodies Imagine North Lauderdale’s mission of making it ‘all about the students. No exceptions. No excuses.’”A parent says this when reflecting on Ms. Burgess’ impact on her son: “Her belief in him and her constant support makes it easier for me to continue supporting him as well.”A passionate and committed teacher, Ms. Burgess sets high expectations for each student. Her classroom culture provides a strong balance of individualized plans with student ownership of accountability both behaviorally and academically, along with a safe and nurturing climate where everything experienced is an opportunity for growth.