In the Spring of 2019, the London City School District published its Portrait of a Graduate, which highlights the key skills and attitudes necessary for district graduates to have success in college and careers. Our district uses the Portrait of a Graduate to help design meaningful teaching and learning experiences for our students. Similarly, during the Spring of 2022, the London City School District worked to identify and publish the most valued skills and dispositions that educators should demonstrate daily to help prepare our students to be future-ready. These skills include:
Effective Communication,
Focused on Relationship-Building,
Being Flexible and Adaptable,
Demonstrating High Integrity; and,
Being a role model for Life-Long Learning.
Mrs. Kate Johnson was recognized during the October 2025 Regular Board of Education meeting for substantially demonstrating these skills!
Affectionately known as “Miss Kate” to her students, she is a dedicated special education resource teacher who serves Kindergarten through third-grade students with diverse communication, behavioral, and academic needs. She exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator at London City Schools.
Kate consistently ensures her students make impressive academic and personal growth, going above and beyond to meet each child where they are. Last year, for example, she took the initiative to learn how to use a student’s Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device, and then proactively trained a colleague when the student transitioned classrooms. This level of foresight and collaboration is a hallmark of her practice. She is always willing to assist fellow special education teachers, all while challenging her own students to grow within their individual abilities.
Kate embodies every quality outlined in the Portrait of an Educator. She approaches each day with unwavering commitment, compassion, and positivity. Her flexibility and adaptability are unmatched as she seamlessly adjusts her instruction and environment to meet the diverse and complex needs of her students. No challenge is too great; she meets each one with creativity, patience, and a genuine smile. Her classroom is a place of safety, encouragement, and growth, where students of all abilities are empowered to achieve success.
Her ability to build relationships is exceptional. Students know they are loved and supported, and colleagues admire her selflessness and reliability. Kate is often the first to step up when someone needs coverage, the first to offer a helping hand, and the last to leave when the job isn’t quite done. Her integrity shines through in every interaction.
What truly sets Kate apart is the depth of her care. She is invested not only in her students’ academics but also in their well-being, confidence, and sense of belonging. She continually seeks new knowledge and professional learning opportunities, all with one goal in mind: to do what’s best for the kids she serves every single day. Through her compassion, collaboration, and tireless dedication, she reflects the very best of London City Schools and serves as a shining example of what it means to be an extraordinary educator.
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