Source: Needham Public Schools
Date: June 19, 2007
Byline: Office of the Superintendent

Memorandum

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Cathy Heller as Director of Student Support Services at Needham High School effective July 1, 2007. She is currently serving in a similar position at Brookline High School, and she has a strong background in special education at both public and private settings.

The interview committee found her to be extremely knowledgeable about special education, high school programming, child development, and mental health. She has strong experience in developing programs for high school students; and she has excellent communication skills, both written and oral. George Johnson had the opportunity to observe her with parents of special needs students; and they clearly were impressed by her ability to listen, her child-centered approach, and her knowledge about a wide range of disabilities.

On a site visit to Brookline High School, Cathy was described as a "careful listener," "a clear thinker," "a creative problem-solver," and a "compassionate and tireless worker." A former student said, "She saved my life. She gave me a sense of direction, made me feel I could succeed, and supported me until I made it." Everyone we talked with obviously liked, trusted, and respected Cathy. She has accomplished much at Brookline High School, and the staff described a tremendous sense of loss that would be felt if she were to leave.

I believe that Cathy has the skills, both personal and professional, to be highly successful at Needham High School. She is a professional who has made a difference in every position she has held, and I firmly believe she will be a valuable and valued addition to the Needham School System.