Alicia Cagnolatti, Regional Program Teacher (Intermediate), Fulton Elementary School

March 1st, 2017

Fulton Elementary School’s Alicia Cagnolatti approaches her role as a regional program teacher with a calling to serve others and a strong interest in understanding social behavior. As Cagnolatti explains, “The most important thing I need to remember in my position is that students want and need to be heard. Setting aside the academics for a moment to take care of the student as an individual allows us the opportunity to make sure they are in the frame of mind where they can be available for learning.”

HCPSS regional programs serve students by building their social and academic competencies, supporting parents, and collaborating with community agencies. Cagnolatti is part of a close-knit team, including a crisis interventionist, student assistants and instructional assistants, to support her three students at the intermediate level.

“I try to meet the students where they are, have faith in their abilities and build their confidence so they have faith as well. I’m here to arm them with the knowledge and self-management strategies they need to reach their full potential and be successful in school and life,” Cagnolatti said.

Cagnolatti describes herself as “firm with high expectations,” so at first she was surprised that “empathy” was one of her top “Strengths.” Julie Davis, Fulton special education instructional team leader, however sees it: “Alicia has a lot of patience and empathy for the different situations our students are going through. On top of everything, she really goes above and beyond for our students, so they get the specialized instruction they need to be successful.”

Growing up, Cagnolatti always had a passion for helping others. In college she studied sociology as she toyed with career options, such as working in a hospital or being a social worker. She discovered teaching was the best fit, especially at the upper elementary level because “I like helping shape the kids as they grow up during this transitional period.” She switched from general to special education at first for the job opportunities but quickly realized “I have a heart for these kids.” She’s been an educator for 16 years, first in California before moving to Maryland and joining Fulton five years ago.

Cagnolatti likes working in HCPSS, and Fulton in particular, because of its collaborative environment, community support, innovation in instruction and professional development opportunities. She’s in the third level of Cultural Proficiency training to further her understanding of how to amplify others’ voices and ensure everyone feels included. In her personal life, she has taken on the role of community relations chair at her daughters’ school to help cement a relationship between the school and community while supporting teachers and staff.