Cathy Hoos, kindergarten

  Tell us a little about yourself.
I live in High Bridge with my husband Dave, we will be celebrating our 27 th wedding anniversary this October. We have three children, twin daughters and a son. Our daughters, Jessica and Jenna are both married and live close by, each one has three children, giving us 6 beautiful grandchildren, ranging in age

from 3 to 14. Our son Austin is almost 26 and just recently moved out of our home. So we are “empty nesters.” We have 1 dog Moe and 2 cats, Lenny and Squiggy. In my spare time, I enjoy gardening and

taking care of my home and family. I also like to bicycle and take walks. My husband and I recently returned from a Riverboat Cruise along the Colombia River and all I can say is what a magnificent God

we have. His creation is just breathtaking. I have been working in Special Education for more than 20 years. I have worked in the public and private sector. I thoroughly enjoy working in the Christian environment. Feeling appreciated and loved is the greatest feeling I get from Christian education.

What is your favorite Bible verse or passage and why?   

I do have several, but my favorite one is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, “ says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” I have this verse stenciled on my dining room wall. This verse reminds me daily that God is in control and He is the one who directs our paths. As I head out the door each day, I know that God’s hedge of protection is around me and there is no fear or worry, all I need to do is rely on Him.

Besides the Bible, what is your favorite book and why?
 I mostly enjoy children’s books. Especially ones that make children laugh. Pigs in the Mud in the Middle of the Rud: by Lynn Plourde is my all-time favorite. This book has a rhythmic, repetitive, energetic read to it. I also have a special liking to Love You Forever, by Robert Munsch. I read that to my son quite often when he was a baby and it always made me cry, and still does.

If you could make 1 major change to education, what would it be?  

If I could make one major change to education, I would love for there to be more hands on learning. More real-world trades and connections so students would have a better understanding of what life has to offer them. Help them to find their passion, something that will make them happy.

What aspects of Foundation First's model do you find most appealing?
I really like the Foundation and family partnership. Being in sync with parents as to their child’s learning community is a big plus. Making sure we are on the same page, understanding the student’s capabilities both at home and in the classroom.

Describe your teaching style or philosophy.  Do you have any unique teaching methods you use to engage students?  

 Being in Special Education most of my career, I find that understanding the student’s strengths and weaknesses is the best approach. Since each student has their individual learning style we need find out what that is and meet those students where they can learn and succeed to the best of their ability. Praise and encouragement definitely aid in each child’s success. Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.