Cc > SPRINGBROOK To whom it may concern: February 12, 2015 Twould like to add my recommendation for Katie Orrell to her student teaching portfolio. Katie showed exceptional professionalism during her 4 week, 120 hout J-term practicum. She did not miss a single day or assignment given by myself. Since this was not a “teaching” experience or environment, Katie was not given the opportunity to show a higa level of assertiveness in classroom management. She did, however, show exceptional creativity, enthusiasm and was able to maintain a calm attitude even in the most extreme of group therapy envirorments - meaning students jumping, screaming, crying, and attempting to hurt themselves or others and often all at the same time, i.e. chaos. I feel that Katie would be capable of handling a “traditional” music education classroom, given the opportunity. The following were noted as areas of professional strength: 1. Made unique contributions to the classroom group and individual therapy sessions as well as our school bulletin board 2. Demonstrated genuine support and respect for all students - more so even than some of our professional staff 3. Created a safe, caring environment 4. Showed professionalism in dress, attendance, maintaining calm ‘The following were noted as areas in need of improvement: 1. Katie needs to just “go with” her instincts and lead in her own way. 2. Katie needs to show and be an example of self confidence in order to help students learn and maintain their own self-confidence. I was extremely pleased with the assistance that Katie offered me during her practicum. [ hope that she gets the chance to leam from a great music education teacher next year. If you should have any further questions regarding this recommendation, please feel free to contact me at perezd@springbrookny.org, rezd “Tayby/oo naresicar fo — Darey Perez, MA, MT-BC, LCAT ‘Music Therapist-Board Certified -#07652 NYS Licensed Creative Arts Therapist -#001572 +105 Campus Drive * Oneonta, New York 13820-3153 * Phone: 607. 286.7171 * FAX: 607.286.7166 www-springbrookny.org