Stephanie Siano, West Windsor
As a former West Windsor-Plainsboro student, I have had the privilege of experiencing Michele Kaish’s dedication to the bettering of all students first hand. Michele has proven that she understands students’ needs and is willing to do whatever it takes to act on their behalf.
More than anyone I have ever met, Michele understands that not all students learn the same way. Throughout my tenure in the district (and beyond), Michele has consistently reminded me that success is not solely measured by GPA. This is exemplified in her support of curriculum reform that promotes the success of ALL students.
When I was an incoming freshman at West-Windsor Plainsboro High School North, my options for classes were limited. While I had never been the strongest math or science student, I was very passionate about social studies and writing and I wish there were more available options to challenge myself with accelerated classes. Now, thanks to Michele’s contributions on the school board, students have the option to take a “World History Honors” class their freshman year.
As young people, we many times feel the student experience seems lost on adults. However, I have never met someone who truly understands students’ needs in classrooms and beyond better than Michele Kaish.
All students can remember the countless hours spent on summer vacations slaving over packets, workbooks and essays. While the continuity of learning is important, so is the brief time in a child’s life that he or she can spend bettering themselves at camps, playing outside or on vacations with their families. Michele was instrumental in changing summer assignments so that nothing is due before the first day of school (several classes used to have July and August assignments).
Additionally, Michele helped reform the assignments themselves to be more purposeful and less costly to the student’s overall marking period grade.
Like many other students in West Windsor-Plainsboro, I was heavily involved with extracurricular activities. From sports teams, to the theater programs, to the music departments, to academically focused organizations, Michele has been and continues to be every student’s cheerleader. Not only has she continued to represent the students’ voice and defend our programs, but Michele “walks the walk” by attending, supporting and trumpeting all of our successes. Students in every school and in every program, academic and beyond, have felt Michele’s unconditional love and respect.
As a former student of the district, I firmly believe that West Windsor Plainsboro is stronger because of Michele Kaish’s contributions. To say Michele’s passion for bettering the students of West Windsor-Plainsboro is palpable would be a gross understatement.
Stephanie Siano
West Windsor
