Celebrating ESP Week: Catherine Winston at Kensington

Education Support Professionals Week rolls on as we celebrate the many school staff members who make learning possible! Today’s honoree is Teacher Aide Catherine Winston at Kensington Road Elementary School!

It only takes a moment for her principal to describe how special Teacher Aide Catherine Winston is. “Catherine’s great rapport with colleagues and commitment to helping students become the best version of themselves make her an essential and cherished member of our support staff,” says Marissa Macey. “She truly loves the students and helps them develop social skills while teaching valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom!”

In her role as a teacher aide, she is a support for students’ academic, social, and emotional needs as they move through their day. “My goal is to be someone they can trust and connect with through active and empathetic listening, being patient, and maintaining a non-judgmental demeanor,” Mrs. Winston says. 

She works in an inclusion classroom and feels her ability to assist students in need of modifications allows her class to achieve success. “My daily goal is to ensure everyone has the resources needed for both individual and hands-on learning, and the extra touch point I provide allows them to be successful,” Catherine explains. “Kids have an innate ability to make me laugh and see the beauty in the world,” she says. “Being around them is rewarding and makes me feel hopeful.” 

Mrs. Winston values the personal connections she makes by being a constant presence in the classroom. And in turn, her colleagues value her consistency in going above and beyond as an incredibly hard worker for her students. “GF Nation has an incredible sense of community," she remarks. “I raised my kids in this community and have loved giving back to the next generation.” 

Mrs. Winston grew up in Syracuse, New York, and was a teacher before raising her children. “My family moved to Glens Falls when my kids were young and they attended Kensington, which is when I first became involved with GFSD. I have worked with the district in a professional capacity for six years now.”

“As a dedicated member of the environmental club and a team player, she fosters a positive and collaborative environment for students within the classroom walls and beyond them,” says Mrs. Macey. Outside of work, Mrs. Winston enjoys hiking and canoeing in the Adirondacks, and reading.

Throughout the week, Nov. 17-21, we are highlighting our staff members whose various careers touch the lives of our students and pave the way for success! Education Support Professionals—our teacher aides, teaching assistants, secretaries, custodians, and many other team members—play a crucial role in every school building, every day. Check back every day this week to read about our wonderful team members who are being honored during ESP Week 2025!