Special Education Teacher Champions Student Success At Liberty Junior High School

Orland Park, Illinois — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully, Orland Park is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Matthew Rauen, who nominated Katie Rauen of Liberty Junior High School.

What is the school hero’s name?

Katie Rauen

Where does this school hero work?

Liberty Junior High School

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

She is a special education teacher that takes note of every student and knows all their “issues” or “problems” or parental concern. She not only wants the best for the students but for the staff and parents. She takes every failure and misstep to heart and tries her best to make sure all parents and students are successful.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

Wife

What should your community know about this person?

She is extremely dedicated to her work. She has not only been teaching but also going to school for her doctorate. Her entire teaching career she is not only teaching but always learning and growing. She is not only concerned with the students' success but if she is doing her best. She stays up late and wakes early to finish IEP/504’s. From the start of school till the end of school she cares not only for the success of her students but her three boys at home. She wants the best for herself, her family, her students, the school staff and the school.

What three words best describe the school hero?

Dedicated, loyal, and honest

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

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