Kathleen Lowe
As a current graduate student who works in the Bridge Alliance Program, helps run the Learning Center and teaches 10th and 11th grade English, Kathleen Lowe is “definitely always busy.” She grew up in Pembroke, Mass. with her three siblings and attended Merrimack College before coming to Brookline in September of 2018. In her free time she enjoys baking, going on runs and spending time with friends and family. This is Lowe’s third year at Brookline High, but her first year as a lead teacher.
What drew you here specifically?
I had just moved to Boston and I was going to grad school in the city and I had always heard great things about the school system in Brookline. I applied to be a paraprofessional here, so I interviewed with one of the supervisors and it just made me realize that I’d love to work in a big school community.
What have been some highlights of working at BHS?
In my position as a paraprofessional, I was able to get to know not only the students I was assigned to, but also the students in the classroom I was working in. The culture here is also another highlight, as every student I’ve met has been so friendly and welcoming. I just love how each student has strong opinions, and they’re not afraid to share them with their teachers.
How has online learning affected the way that you work with students?
I like that we can do breakout rooms so I can have one-on-one time with students. I feel like I am actually getting more one-on-one time with students than I did in person, which is really nice. Being able to just talk to them about anything that is on their mind has been great.
What specifically drew you to special education?
I like the fact that, as a special education teacher, you are teaching students that are able to learn like everyone else, but they might need to learn a different way. I like that in special education you teach the students to advocate for themselves.
You mentioned being in grad school. What is it like managing that while also working at BHS?
It’s definitely a lot of work, but I’m just trying to figure out how to stay organized and manage my time wisely. I’m definitely always busy.
Where do you see yourself in five or 10 years?
I’d love to stay in Brookline. I think eventually it’d be great to be a full transition special education teacher, so working with the 18- to 22-year-olds and maybe owning a bakery on the side, but we’ll see.