To whom it may concern, I have supervised Katharine in many positions and in multiple settings for over nine years. She was a Paraprofessional in my classroom for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Developmental Disabilities (DD) in Denver Public Schools for three years. Then, for the past six years, Katharine has either taught or been the Educational Director (Head of School) at The Joshua School Denver campus, a private school for children with ASD and DD, under my supervision. It should be noted that in addition to working at The Joshua School, Katharine is one of the founders of the school. In each of these positions, Katharine has shown leadership, organization, self-awareness, and dedication. As a Special Education Teacher, Katharine always puts her students first. She has proven her ability to work with a wide range of students, from children challenged by extreme cognitive delays and behavior to children with above-average intelligence and Asperger's Syndrome. She accomplishes this by getting in the child's world, by really understanding what motivates them and drives them. Katharine is an expert in managing teams. Using her experience as an Educational Director, Katharine is able to recognize the abilities and needs of each of her staff and to put those to work towards the mission of any organization. She has a natural way of honoring people for who they are while using those skills to get the job done. As an Educational Director, Katharine has earned the respect and admiration of staff and parents alike. Katharine has worked hard to create systems that support program implementation and parent-teacher communication. While at TJS, Katharine created an IEP binder that is now used as a standard for the Colorado Department of Education. In fact, on one of CDE's visits, they commented that "what you have done in eight months would take most schools three years!" She implemented our True Colors program at TJS, a system that identifies the different ways that people approach issues. Through this program, our staff has recognized the myriad approaches to problem-solving and has learned to value multiple ways of contributing. Finally, parents trust and appreciate Katharine. She is honest, humble, and willing to take responsibility - characteristics that disarm and garner the faith of any parent. It is her ability to look at herself and to take responsibility when necessary that makes her a true leader. As a person, Katharine stands for her principles. She has always been, and will continue to be, someone who asks the questions that need to be asked. She is committed to the ideal that kids and families get what they deserve, and that means never quitting. Time and again, I have come into a meeting with four or five different ideas of how I think an outcome should be accomplished. Katharine listens and processes and nine times out of ten comes up with THE idea that will actually make the difference. She is a gift to any organization and a gift to the field of education. I will always treasure her selflessness and her willingness to improve. You will never find a more dedicated employee. When Katharine puts her heart into something, it is a foregone conclusion that it will succeed. Without hesitation, I recommend her for employment in your organization. Sincerely, Jason G.