MASTER TEACHER: CATHY NAUGHTON (1977-PRESENT)
Cathy Naughton
In addition to Robert Romero and Tom Rice, Cathy Naughton joined our faculty in 1977. John Kuntz, the current Middle School head at Kent Denver School, believes more than fifteen people, including him, found themselves in a mountain retreat for new faculty that year.
At a later date, I shall talk about the evolution and the importance of art instruction at the school. What is more important right now is to share Beth Hower’s lovely words on Cathy’s sterling contribution to our art program:
“The hallmark of a great teacher is the ability to develop quality relationships with students. Cathy connects with her students in authentic, meaningful ways that come naturally to her: knowing each person well, affirming their strengths, and accepting their weaknesses. Cathy is a one of a small number of teachers who are equally comfortable with five -year- olds and fifteen- year -olds; they all view her as someone who understands what they are thinking and feeling and who knows how to support them. . . Cathy keeps in contact with many of her former students, as they seek her advice regarding college, career, and life. Their respect and admiration for her extend beyond her role as their art teacher. Cathy is a caring, sensitive adult who has positively impacted their lives.”
As an aside: there were two other Master Teachers who came to the school in 1977: Margaret Akolt and Dennis Griebel. It was a banner year for the school.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
