Today’s #HCSHeroes Spotlight is Maria Reap, the department head for the exceptional education department at Hixson High School and teacher of CALMM classes for the district. Mrs. Reap, who has been with Hamilton County Schools since 2012, ensures exceptional education students have the accommodations they need to succeed in school.
“Mrs. Reap was instrumental in helping my son who is on the spectrum get through school by helping him get caught up on work,” said Ellen Fuller, a parent. “She taught him how to tie a tie, sew a button, and talk to people on the phone appropriately. Many days I would get pictures of him doing things that other students his age could do long before he could, but she taught him to do things confidently. My son still remembers her fondly.”
“I often say to people that I don't know why everyone doesn't want my job - my students make me smile and laugh every single day,” said Mrs. Reap. “We definitely have our ups and downs, but my students, my aides, and I are all like a family. It's a pleasure to watch these kids grow from freshmen to seniors.”
Mrs. Reap adds, “I am thankful for parents. I have been blessed to work with parents who are so supportive and who work closely with me to help their child at school. Our kids learn the most when parents and teachers work together as a team.”
The efforts of our teachers and staff are truly heroic, and we are proud to have people like Mrs. Reap on our team to support our students!
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