Educator of the Year

The Rolling Hills staff is excited to recognize our school psychologist, Karen Arrowsmith, as this year's educator of the year.

As a mental health professional, Karen knows that supporting students’ whole wellbeing is fundamental to them being able to think, to learn, to achieve, and to care. She meets students right where they are, celebrating their strengths while supporting their next steps. Karen builds strong relationships with students and she is their go-to person when they need help, someone to talk to, or a safe space to take a break and re-regulate. Karen approaches her role with a growth mindset and works tirelessly to help students develop their own. She knows that self-regulation is necessary for active engagement, and she is talented at helping students develop skills and strategies to support their own regulation. Karen demonstrates the core value of equity in her passionate commitment to making sure Rolling Hills is a safe and supportive environment where EVERY student can thrive.

In addition to the incredible work Karen does with students, she is also a beloved colleague to our staff members. She has abundant patience and positivity, and she is always ready and willing to offer her advice and assistance when anyone needs it. Karen leads our PBiS committee in supporting positive student behaviors, analyzing discipline data, and promoting staff wellness. She is currently serving on our implementation team that is working to build knowledge and capacity around trauma-informed practices schoolwide. On top of everything else, Karen is also a kind, thoughtful, and generous human being. She is a friend to all and a pleasure to be around. She leads with her heart and a strong sense of integrity.