Naperville math teacher wins award for emphasis on tolerance, diversity

Problem-solving in Cathy Kaduk's gifted math class goes far beyond word problems and numbers.

"As we go (further) into the 21st century it's so important we have good communication, good listening, good thinking," said the teacher at Maplebrook Elementary School in Naperville. "There's enough that's going to befall us without us making roadblocks."

Kaduk's emphasis on tolerance, collaboration and diversity has earned her the Rebecca Smith-Andoh Award, an honor she was nominated for by the Maplebrook diversity team.

"In the classroom setting she creates a supportive work environment in which all student and ideas are considered and respected," Principal Gwen Bockman read from the recommendation during a special ceremony. "Students in her class are encouraged to think critically about their traditions and explore and learn about other cultures."

Bockman said Kaduk "goes way beyond her role as a math teacher." She leads after-school math activities for families on Fridays to help those who are struggling and attends committee meetings that aren't required. In addition to being a National Board Certified teacher herself, she mentors other candidates.

"It helps build community in our district," Kaduk explained. "I learn more than I share. It's been a great learning experience to be with the other talented teachers who care and are passionate about their teaching."

Kaduk has embarked on another learning experience as well. She is taking graduate level classes at the University of Illinois-Chicago to study math assessment in learning sciences.

Kaduk is the second recipient of the Rebecca Smith-Andoh Award in Naperville Unit District 203. Last year's winner was Marie Bartolotta, director of the library resource center at Mill Street Elementary.

Other nominees for this year's award were Terry Evans, bus driver at Mill Street Elementary School; Anne Hill, vocal music teacher at Prairie Elementary; JeanE Kloepper, assistant principal of Scott Elementary; Robyn Rippel, principal of Beebe Elementary; and Dilara Sayeed, language arts teacher at Kennedy Junior High.

The award is named in honor of Smith-Andoh, who was a social worker at Naper Elementary, Jefferson Junior High School and Mill Street Elementary. She was also a founding member of the district's diversity committee and participated in a state committee that wrote social and emotional learning standards.

Smith-Andoh died in 2007 after a long illness. Her daughter, Cheryl Jordan, was on hand to present the award to Kaduk. She also described some of the programs she has started to help young people with character building, literacy and leadership.

"I wanted to continue the influence my mother has on young people," she said.

For information on Jordan's programs, visit rebeccashousefoundation.com.