Celebration Dinner for Kate Westafer, Winner of the Roger L. Wallace Excellence in Teaching Award
Kate Westafer
Source: Carlie Tartakov
The public is invited to a celebration dinner for Kate Westafer, this year’s recipient of the Roger L. Wallace Excellence in Teaching Award. Westafer is a special education teacher who heads the Intensive Learning Center at Wildwood Elementary School.The dinner and program to recognize and celebrate Kate Westafer will be held on Sunday, October 5t at Valentine Hall, Amherst College at 5:00pm. See the flyer below for information on how to purchase tickets.
The award was established in 2012 by the Excellence in Teaching Foundation to honor elementary school teachers in Amherst or Pelham, who have demonstrated exceptional talents and commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and equity in education. The award includes a $1,000 stipend and has become one of the district’s most prestigious recognitions for elementary-level educators. Westafer was selected by the Foundation’s Nomination Committee based on her outstanding teaching practices, unwavering dedication to inclusive education, and her impact on students, families, and colleagues alike.
The Intensive Learning Center (ILC), a specialized program at Wildwood Elementary, has evolved into a dynamic and inclusive learning environment under Westafer’s guidance. Through her leadership, the ILC has become a place where difference is not only embraced but celebrated. “Within our spaces, students engage with both academic and social peers, as well as others who share their communication and physical abilities,” said Westafer. “It is just as meaningful for students to connect with those who reflect their own lived experiences as it is to learn alongside those who move, communicate, and learn differently.”
“Kate is a powerful example of what it means to lead with heart, intellect, and unwavering commitment,” said Superintendent Dr. E. Xiomara Herman. “She brings compassion and clarity to her classroom each day, ensuring that every learner is seen, supported, and challenged to grow. We are thrilled to see her contributions recognized with this well-deserved honor.”
