Discover the Difference: Meeting the Needs of All Students
by Diocese of Des Moines | June 25, 2020
Christ the King Catholic School, located at 701 Wall Ave. in Des Moines, announced that it will expand its academic offerings for diverse learners beginning in the 2020-2021 school year. Additional support will be provided for students across the learning continuum to ensure academic progress and success. These newly expanded services will be provided by Christ the King faculty member Kari Barrington.
Barrington, a Des Moines native, will enter her sixth year of teaching at Christ the King School this fall, specializing in work with English Language Learners, Title Reading and Math, and Special Education. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with endorsements in reading and English/Language Arts from Grand View University in 2014, and later gained endorsements in Instructional Strategist 1 and English as a Second Language. She recently earned a Master’s Degree in Education with a concentration of English as a Second Language.
“While working with students that have diverse learning needs, Kari’s special education certification will provide for more personalized learning opportunities through one-on-one or small group instruction,” said Daniel Thole, Christ the King School Administrator. “It is imperative that we strive to open our doors to all students in order to fulfill our Catholic mission. Embracing all learners at Christ the King School was a natural fit given the level of individualized instruction and classroom differentiation already provided by our faculty.”
Barrington added, “I advocate for school of choice and am enthusiastic to enhance the instruction offered at Christ the King School. I believe teaching and education is not one size fits all. I am delighted to come back to Christ the King School this year with a new vision of service and support for our students.”
“The Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools are committed to working with all learners to the best of our ability, including children who may require additional academic support. To this end, we have embarked on integrating robust diverse learner programs and services in a number of our schools,” said Donna Bishop, Superintendent of Schools. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure all students receive an education that leads them to discover their individual strengths and abilities in order to reach their God-given potential.”
Schools throughout the Diocese of Des Moines have faculty endorsed in special education to meet the needs of diverse learners. Moreover, all faculty benefit from professional development designed to aide our schools in differentiating instruction to ensure academic growth and success for all students.
Our Catholic schools includes 16 schools in 23 counties in central and southwest Iowa. Catholic schools in the Des Moines Diocese build Christ-centered, collaborative, inclusive partnerships with parents, students, and parishes to provide innovative academic excellence and inspirational faith formation for students.
To learn about more about our Catholic schools and diverse learner support, visit www.dmdiocese.org/catholic-schools to find a school near you.