District:

Metropolitan School District of Washington Township

School:

Nora Elementary School

Content Area(s):

Special Education

When asked how she would describe herself as a teacher, Ashley Gilchrist—a fifth-year special education resource teacher at Nora Elementary School—selected the words “inclusive” and “devoted.”  Ashley prides herself on focusing on the whole child as she builds relationships with all students. This is reflected in her work as one of her school’s founding organizers of Cub Quest, an experience designed for students and staff to learn together, to make connections across grade levels, and to start the school year strong.  As part of Cub Quest, students are placed in a school “family” that meets regularly throughout the school year for continued connection.  Ashley’s dedication to building relationships transcends the work she does with students as she is also an active member of her school’s PTA, working with families and teachers to build community.  Ashley is a reflective practitioner, continually seeking out new ways to grow professionally.