Special Educator Named Rising Star Teacher of the Year
Ashley Kapp, third grade special education teacher at Brooke Grove Elementary School in Olney, is this year’s Rising Star Teacher of the Year.
In her first year of teaching, Kapp works within the school’s Learning Center. The class is made up of third grade students primarily diagnosed with autism with very individualized academic and behavior plans that require a modified pace of instruction with specific supplementary aids and accommodations. She teaches self-contained services in reading, writing, math, science and social studies.
In the words of her students:
“Ms. Kapp loves me a lot. I feel it in my heart.”
“Ms. Kapp doesn’t give up on me.”
“She always gives me a second chance.”
“Ms. Kapp always makes me happy.”
Her creativity and inspiration are at the heart of her teaching, bringing lessons to life in ways that ignite curiosity and joy for her students. She has the ability to build meaningful, trusting relationships with students, families and colleagues. She fills lessons with dances, demonstrations and acting out opportunities. She designed “building choices” activities for students who struggle with social interactions. By creating a safe and playful environment where students can choose and build together, Kapp empowers her students to engage more confidently with peers.
Her classroom is welcoming and vibrant with accommodating spaces, including calm-down areas, positive affirmations and small group instructional areas. It is set up to best serve her students, who require significant visuals paired with vocabulary. As a huge believer in social-emotional learning, her classroom offers a variety of ways for students to express their feelings and regulate their emotions, including mirrors around the room, posters, access to fidget toys, a sensory wall, sequin fabric, gel tiles, individualized token boards, and flexible and comfortable seating arrangements. Kapp also works exclusively with two paraeducators and created an environment for them to comfortably work and lead student instruction.
A Richard Montgomery High School graduate, Kapp implements current technology and best practices. She is a strong collaborator with students, staff and parents. Kapp creates daily communication sheets that are sent home with students so their daily progress is transparent. Parents are also kept in the loop through personal calls, emails and in-person conferences.
She has an open-door policy, welcoming visitors and observers and, most recently, local therapy dog Raven, as another way to support social-emotional growth for her students.