Christine Hartwich, Special Education Teacher

Why did you choose this specific field?

I chose special education as I have family who has received special education services in their schooling and have seen the good and the bad. I wanted to be a positive role model for those who may not always have a voice.

Christine has a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education (Providence College) and a Master’s in Mathematics for Certified Teachers (Central Connecticut State University)

What's a day like for you at High Road School?

On a typical workday, I welcome all students until the majority of my class is in when I will then join them in the classroom. We work our way through reading and language arts rotations, snack on a snack, calculate in mathematics rotations and take a break for lunch. We dive into Social Studies or Science and then I rotate off for my physical education class of the day. Throughout the day you see me taking students to the motor lab for their sensory or behavioral plan breaks. I see my students off and end my day by often making positive phone calls home. Later at home, you will see my Pinterest board grow with new ideas planned for my students!

What do you enjoy most about coming to school every day?

I look forward to greeting as many students as I can every day! I believe a positive and cheerful greeting will start their day well!

Can you give an example of a ‘Little Victory’ you’ve seen a student achieve at school?

A little victory can be found in many ways. Whether a student says please and thank you or uses a coping skill that was learned. When a student is willing to try a task that is too difficult from their point of view, it shows they are motivated and trust that is it okay to make mistakes and take risks.

Can you describe something special about your team and the school?

It is very important to High Road School of Hartford Primary to build a positive relationship with guardians, parents, outside services, and with other members of the team! I am amazed at how wonderful the staff I work with are. There are days that are difficult, yet the staff come back every day with a fresh start the next day. We pass this message along to our students every day. The mistakes we make the day before stay in the past. Try hard today!