Kathleen grew up in Philadelphia where she began working with children with at a young age. She has a degree in Early, Elementary, and Special Education from Temple University and a MSEd in Early Childhood Special Education from Fordham University. While at Temple University, Kathleen opened an after-school program for children in North Philadelphia. The program partnered with a local hospital to offer physical, mental, and dental health services on site. It was there that she discovered the power of a communal approach to education and impact on a child. After graduating college, Kathleen taught children with a variety of special needs in the School District of Philadelphia. Since 2005, Kathleen has taught in inclusive settings in the South Bronx. Since stepping out of the classroom, Kathleen has had opportunities to mentor other educators, advocate for children with special needs, and serve as a liasion to special needs agencies across the city. All the while, Kathleen contintues to refine her craft as an educator for all children. Kathleen’s driving force and passion remains rooted in the relationships created with students and their families.