The Board of Education recognizes an educator who contributes to Ridgeway Elementary School daily with her Special Education knowledge and curriculum understanding.

Mrs. Valerie Gottschalk comes to work each day with energy, a smile, and a positive attitude to tackle unique challenges. She instructs students in grades 3 through 5 who require a self-contained learning environment for their core content classes. She preserves students’ dignity and weaknesses by highlighting their strengths.

She creates relationships with students which allow her to foster a safe and loving classroom. As a result, she holds her students with disabilities to a high level while ensuring that their individual needs are being met. She tracks student growth and holds students accountable for their growth. Mrs. Gottschalk is trusted by her students. She has high energy which allows her to meet all students’ needs.

Additionally, she is a collaborative member of the staff, working with general education teachers to create inclusive classrooms. She works as a teammate to ensure each student is getting what they need. She can boost morale by singing, dancing, and even answering her walkie with, “Vgotti here.” 

Mrs. Gottschalk is a valued member of the community forming trusting relationships with the families on her caseload. She loves the students, staff, and the Ridgeway community. She can be counted on when Ridgeway needs something “extra.” She is even a visible presence outside during rain, snow, thunder, or heat while on bus duty. Ridgway is a better place because of Mrs. Gottschalk.

Valerie Gottschalk, the Board of Education is grateful for your commitment to your students, for these reasons we award you as April 2025, Educator of the Month.