Richard Henry Lee Elementary Teacher Named Educator of the Month

has recognized a math specialist at as its Educator of the Month for April.

Kristin O’Leary, a math interventionist, received the honor during the board’s meeting Wednesday—which also was her birthday—and was praised for her efforts to provide extra math instruction to students. O’Leary, who also was nominated by the school as the , was credited with forming early-morning workshops for students in need of additional instruction.

“She believes providing students extra assistance will help them become more successful as they progress through elementary school,” board member Teresa Birge (Dist. 32) said in presenting O’Leary the award.

The board credited O’Leary with carrying out several new initiatives at Richard Henry Lee, including the school’s first cultural fair. The board also said O’Leary has been an active participant in staff meetings, where she has frequently presented new ways to present math concepts in the classroom.

“This provides teachers with a comfort level, knowing that the strategies Kristin brings to the table are well thought-out and proven in the classroom,” Birge said. "The classroom teachers benefit greatly from her creativity, her enthusiasm and her determination to provide the best instruction possible."

Assistant Principal Al Witmer said he was very proud of her.

"She goes above and beyond what you can ask of her in the classroom," he said. "She's what you look for in an elementary school teacher."

Editor Maya T. Prabhu contributed to this article.