Wildcat Weekly

Website: https://www.ksb.kyschools.us
Location: 1867 Frankfort Ave, Louisville, KY 40206
Phone: (502) 897-1583

Fax: (502) 897-2850
Facebook: facebook.com/KYschoolfortheblind/
Twitter: @KSBWildcats

8/16/24

Happy Friday Wildcats!

Welcome back to another exciting school year at the Kentucky School for the Blind (KSB). As we start this year, I am filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether you are returning to familiar classrooms or joining us for the first time, I want you to know that you are an important part of our school community, and we are thrilled to have you with us.

This year, our theme is centered around the concept of a growth mindset—the belief that our abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn from challenges. A growth mindset is not just about academic success; it’s about embracing challenges, persisting in the face of setbacks, and understanding that effort is a path to mastery.

At KSB, we believe that each student has the potential to achieve great things. However, we also recognize that the road to success is not always easy. There will be times when we face obstacles, whether it be a difficult math problem, a challenging book, or even a personal goal that feels just out of reach. It is during these moments that a growth mindset becomes most powerful.

For our parents and guardians: Your support is invaluable to your child’s success. We ask that you join us in fostering a growth mindset at home. Encourage your children to embrace challenges, praise their efforts rather than just their achievements, and remind them that learning is a process that takes time and perseverance.

Throughout the year, we will be focusing on growth mindset principles in our classrooms, and I am confident that this approach will help our students not only improve academically but also develop the resilience and grit needed to thrive in all aspects of life.

Thank you for being part of the Wildcat Family. Here’s to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and success!

Take good care,

Peggy Sinclair-Morris

Principal

Elementary Team

Carly is very excited to begin this school year at KSB! She has a bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education from WKU and is currently working toward her Masters Degree in Visual Impairment at UK. She previously taught elementary special education in Bowling Green and is eager to meet all of the students, families and staff!

School Psychologist

Working at KSB is an opportunity that Erin never dreamed of being possible! She recently graduated from Florida International University in Miami with her Specialist's degree in School Psychology. Erin grew up in Louisville, and after being in Florida for school for the past 6 years, she is very happy to be back home. This is her second year in her career as a School Psychologist, and she is so eager to learn how her role can be an asset to the community at KSB! Erin loves to spend her time on walks with her dog (who is a five-pound Mini Cavapoo), exploring the city, going to the lake with her family, and really trying her hand at any and all kinds of different hobbies and activities that break her out of her comfort zone. Last year, she was in an Elementary school in Oldham County, but she is so grateful now to be able to experience all grade levels K-12!

High School MSD Teacher

Katrina Rattermann is beyond excited to join the KSB family as the high school MSD teacher this year. She is a visual artist and educator from Cincinnati, so is a big fan of Joe Burrow (pre-bleach and buzz) and Skyline Chili (She spent the summer collecting virtual coneys #iykyk). This will be her 5th year in special education as well as her 5th year teaching art as an adjunct. Fun facts about Katrina... She is happily engaged to her best friend, and is raising a 2lb. teacup chihuahua named Gucci Versace.

Middle and High School Social Studies

Mr. Torzewski is joining the KSB family as the Middle and High School Social Studies Teacher. This will be Mr. Torzewski's 21st as an educator "Mr. T." is happiest when spending time with his wife, Julie, and 3 children. He loves to be on a boat, in a hammock, on the Jiu-Jitsu mats, or in the classroom with his students.

(FRANKFORT, KY) – Crystal Sohl, a paraprofessional at the Kentucky School for the Blind (KSB), received the 2024 Teresa Perry Compassion Award during the Kentucky Board of Education meeting on June 6. Sohl has been employed as a paraprofessional at KSB for 16 years.

“Crystal always comes to work with a smile and positive attitude,” said her nominator, KSB Principal Peggy Sinclair-Morris. “‘No’ is not in her vocabulary. Daily, Crystal can be heard saying, ‘What can I do to help’ and ‘What can I do to make this a great day for our students.'”

Sohl works closely with students who are blind and/or visually impaired and with additional disabilities. She provides academic supports and is key in providing social-emotional development for the students.

“Her compassion and integrity are evident in all that she does. Her dedication to providing personalized assistance ensures that all of the students she works with thrive and grow,” said Sinclair-Morris.

The award is given in honor of Teresa Perry, who served as executive secretary to the commissioner of education and worked for the state for more than 33 years. She was noted for providing outstanding customer service to those inside and outside the agency, always exhibiting compassion and providing positive inspiration for others.

The award is given annually in June to a KDE employee who exhibits the characteristics and professionalism Perry showed every day. The first three recipients were Janice Harris (2021), Monica Raines (2022) and Viembre Nicholson (2023).

“Although Teresa would say not to worry about recognizing her, she’d be so happy that we have used her name for an award that honors the hard work and compassion that so many people at KDE show on a daily basis,” said KDE Communications Director Jennifer Ginn.

In receiving the award, Sohl expressed her gratitude.

"Thank you all so much," she said. "It is my honor to try to carry on Teresa's memory."

Sohl added, "It's all about the kids."

“In the ever-changing landscape of the day, Crystal demonstrates incredible flexibility and adaptability, always putting the needs of the students first and foremost,” said Sinclair-Morris. “She’s willing to step in and assist wherever needed, ensuring that transitions are smooth for the students.

Not only does Sohl provide support in the classroom, she also serves as a coach for track and cheerleading. Sinclair-Morris said Sohl dedicates countless hours outside of the academic day to “ensure the students have a positive and fun experience in sports.”

“Crystal encourages the students to do their best and serves as an excellent role model for the athletes,” she added.

“As we present this award, we are preserving the legacy of Teresa Perry,” said Interim Commissioner of Education Robin Fields Kinney. “Teresa would be proud that the recipient is someone so dedicated to assisting the students and staff and always with such a positive attitude. Congratulations Crystal, employees like you change lives.”

Who: Families and caregivers committed to the well-being of their loved ones with disabilities

What: An unparalleled conference experience tailored for special needs families, where support, education, and connection come together in a truly unique setting.

When: October 25 & 26

Where: Owensboro, Kentucky
Why: The RISE Summit is meticulously designed for families and caregivers committed to the well-being of their loved ones with disabilities. In a unique approach, this Summit will support caregivers of individuals with any disability. Elevating the experience, nationally recognized experts will share their insights, offering a diverse range of crucial discussions on up-to-date information and best practices in the field. This Summit not only serves as an invaluable source of knowledge but also provides families with a unique opportunity to connect and build a supportive community with others who share similar journeys.

Learn more and register by clicking here

Scouting is more than just an adventure; it's an opportunity for youth to develop essential life skills that will guide them into adulthood. Through Scouting, participants will:

• Develop Academic Skills
• Boost Self-Confidence
• Learn Ethics & Leadership
• Foster Citizenship

This is your chance to try new things, provide service to others, and build lasting self-confidence!

First Meeting:

• Date: August 21, 2024
• Time: 6:30 - 7:30 PM
• Frequency: Every other week
• Location: Howser Dorm

Scout Master:

Ottis Florence, KSB Class of 1988

📧 Email: ckckids@aol.com

Come be a part of something meaningful and fun! We can't wait to see you there!

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