Palos Heights Special Ed Teacher 'Meets Students Where They Are'

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL — Great teachers matter. In Palos Heights, we’re fortunate to have teachers like Mary McKenna.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize teachers and show them how much they’re valued and appreciated.

This submission comes from Amy Greenspan, who nominated Mary McKenna, of Palos Heights:

How do you know the teacher?

Coworker

What does this person teach?
Functional Academics

Why do you believe the teacher should be recognized or honored?
Mary is an exceptional teacher of special education students between the ages of 18-22 years old that are part of a Transition Program. Mary meets her students where they are and is their cheerleader. Even when students don’t understand the material she is encouraging and available to help them. She makes learning fun and engaging teaching them real-life skills they need to learn to be as independent as possible. She truly cares about her students while being not just academically. She’s firm but fair and teaches the students what they need to be successful.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the teacher?

She truly cares for the whole student and every aspect of their lives. She is good at listening to students and getting them what they need to succeed. She has a huge heart and is extremely kind to everyone.

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