Retiree Spotlight Mrs. Kathy Rooney

We are delighted to share our final retiree showcase for esteemed colleague and beloved Teaching Assistant, Mrs. Kathy Rooney. 

Mrs. Rooney began her professional career in the dental field as a receptionist and dental assistant in Lackawanna before moving to Sherman.  In Sherman, she was the successful business owner of a 135 acre farm with 70 dairy cows. Mrs. Rooney started her  remarkable 38-year tenure in education as a bus driver transitioning to a Health Aide, then a Teaching Assistant at Chautauqua Central School and Chautauqua Lake CSD.  Throughout her time in education Kathy has been a creative, intelligent and caring teacher. She was gifted in figuring out ways to motivate and support our reluctant learners. Her “children first” attitude, along with her positivity and kindness, increased the potential for success for countless students.  

Mrs. Rooney notes the best part of her job was hearing the student’s stories and seeing their smiles. She especially enjoyed field trips to Rails to Trails; monitoring the vernal pools for Roger Tory Peterson and yearly volunteer trips to take students to the Youth Climate Summit.  Some of the many highlights of her career include starting the student store at Turner Elementary School and “connecting with the rough and tough and getting students that wanted to quit to stick it out.”  Her fellow colleague, Mrs. Kristine Stroth shared,  “Kathy cared about all of the students and their successes.  She could always be counted on to come up with a solution to a problem that will benefit everyone.  She is creative and energetic and she will be greatly missed by all.”

   
Friend and colleague, Mr. Joe Lantz shared, “ Kathy is one of the best people I have ever met, worked with, and have the privilege to call my friend. From day one back in September of 2014, Kathy made me feel welcome as her classroom neighbor and took me under her wing; her advice was excellent and always welcome. Since then, we have shared engaging conversations about anything and everything, taken classes together over the summer at the Chautauqua Institution, and enjoyed good meals and awesome desserts. Most importantly, through her words and actions, Kathy taught me that when working with students always do what is best for each student. Anyone who has met and worked with Kathy knows she gave 100% in every classroom she entered for the students and the teachers in order to “always do what is best for each student.” 

Kathy’s drive, determination and passion for education has been amazing.  She always volunteered to take on the most difficult students and strived to ensure they were provided every opportunity to succeed. Mrs. Jessica Cowan, Guidance Counselor, shares that “Kathy Rooney is a true professional and dear friend. Kathy can work with any student in any course at any time. Not only does she help them complete the coursework, she instills a belief that they are capable and able students. Kathy sees the best in everyone, students and staff alike. She always takes the time to listen and offer calm counsel and sage advice.”

Mrs. Rooney’s retirement plans include a trip to The Ascot horse race in London, enjoying her 11 grandchildren and of course gardening.  Her positivity, genuine empathy and kindness has been a gift to our students, staff and community.  She will be missed by everyone that was fortunate to have known or worked with her over the last 38 years!  Kathy is an irreplaceable member of the Chautauqua Lake family and left a legacy that will not soon be forgotten! 

Respectfully,

Josh Liddell