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EASTON, Conn. Kathy Burke said she loves the first day of school and those ah-ha moments when she sees a light bulb go on for a student or a class.
On the first day of school, the whole building changes. Theres so much energy and excitement, said Burke, who was appointed as Helen Keller Middle Schools assistant principal Thursday by the Easton Board of Education. I love the interaction with students and having those ah-ha moments when a student who has struggled gets it and you know you did what you needed to do.
Burke comes to Easton from Southbury, where she taught math and history and was an instructional leader for both courses. She takes over Susan Kaplans position as assistant principal. Kaplan was promoted to principal in May.
Burke said her first year would be a learning curve.
I want to get familiar with the staff and students, and I want to see what they see as their needs. I want to work collaboratively with all of the stakeholders and hope I bring fresh ideas to support what it is theyre looking for, said Burke. She received a bachelor of applied science degree from Excelsior College and a master's of education from the University of Bridgeport.
I love what I do. My passion has been learning and educating myself and now others for the past seven years, said Burke. Education has changed my life so I know why its so important for our kids.
Burke, who is married and has four daughters, enjoys gardening, hiking and running. When she was young, she was a great Irish step dancer. She is the second of seven children and grew up in New York before moving to Connecticut 25 years ago.
Parents will have an opportunity to meet Kathy Burke and welcome her to Easton at the Helen Keller Middle School open house on Sept. 15.
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