The Hilton Central Schools Teachers Association (HCSTA) 2021-22 Teacher of the Year Award was presented at the annual staff convocation at Hilton High School on September 6. This year’s honoree is Kathryn (Katie) Caprino, Village Elementary School special education teacher,
Caprino has been with the Hilton School District for 12 years, and currently works in the 6:1:1 class for autistic students. She goes above and beyond to meet her students’ academic, physical, emotional, and behavioral needs, making them feel safe and successful. The ultimate “chaos coordinator,” Caprino works with both the students and the various adults in her room, keeping track of schedules, therapies, services and special classes. She is also masterful at communicating with parents, sharing and celebrating the victories her students achieve both in and out of the classroom. One of these parents writes, “…her genuine love for our kiddos is nothing less than breathtaking; she is a gift for kids and families with special needs.”
“At Village, we always say it takes a village,” said Caprino. “Everyone helps and I’m truly grateful for the whole team. I couldn’t do it alone.”
The finalists for this year’s award were: Loni Butlin, intermediate teacher, QUEST Elementary; Katie Caprino, special education teacher, Village Elementary; Brenda Carpenter, intermediate teacher, QUEST Elementary; Kim DiGiacco, special education teacher, Village Elementary; Becky Houghton, math teacher, Hilton High School; Anna Murrer, health/FaCS teacher, Merton Williams Middle School; and Jennifer Sica, fifth grade teacher, Northwood Elementary.
Nominees must have more than five years of exceptional service to the district, active involvement in the Hilton community, and have made a substantial impact on the lives of their students and colleagues.
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