Other Side Of The Desk: Katherine Snow

Other Side of the Desk is a feature that spotlights one of the primary reasons our schools are successful: remarkable teachers.

At one time, Kathy Snow had aspirations and dreams to become one of many stars on Broadway. And while that dream never became a reality, she still shines bright as the music teacher for the students, pre-school through second grade, at the in Chester.   

Sharing a love of music is something that comes naturally to Snow, as she recognized an aptitude for it at an early age. “Music was always a part of our home growing up, and I realized early on that I was good at it,” Snow said. “As I got older I realized how much I enjoyed teaching and performing. What better way to combine these things than to be a public school teacher?”

Sharing her gifts began for Snow with community theater groups before she ever stepped into the classroom. “My secret ambition was to be on Broadway,” said Snow, who has no shortage of interests to choose from. “I’m also a very good proofreader and editor. Language and music are so closely related.” *

Quick Hits:

• Name: Kathy Snow
• Title: Music Teacher, Dickerson Elementary School
• Years as An Educator: 14
• Favorite Food: Pizza
• Surprising Fact: "I’m actually very shy. I’m fine in front of a class of children or performing in front of a large audience, but if I have to speak in front of ten adults or meet new people, I get very nervous."

Over the years, Snow has aided numerous students in finding their innate musical side and nurturing musical talent, but she still sees herself in the role of a student. “Even after so many years, there are endless things about teaching I learn every year,” Snow said. “And so many new things I’d like to teach the students.”

It is that desire to reach out that keeps her coming back. “Sharing my love for music with others is wonderful. But seeing the ‘light bulbs’ go off as the students listen to different music from around the world is amazing,” Snow said. “And I also let the students know there’s a safe and loving place for them here, no matter what happens anywhere else.”

And it is that philosophy that, for her current and former students, has allowed Snow to sparkle as bright as any Broadway luminary.

*Editor’s Note: I await corrections to this article with baited breath.