It was an emotional afternoon at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary on Friday, September 5. After students left for the day, teachers gathered in the library to honor a dear friend who made a lasting impact in their classrooms. Kathy Reiter devoted countless volunteer hours to creating a Spanish bookroom filled with leveled readers, each carefully organized with bins, labels, and a checkout system. She was a longtime supporter of the Spanish Immersion programs at Rosa Parks, Robert Frost, and Sonia Sotomayor, where she faithfully helped teachers by organizing materials, managing books, and providing steady support week after week.
To honor her legacy, Principal Tracy Vik and members of the Reiter family held a small ceremony to dedicate the Kathy Reiter Reading Nook. Though Kathy passed away last year, her memory continues to inspire. Teacher after teacher shared heartfelt stories of her kindness and generosity, filling the room with reminders of her presence. Now, generations of students will enjoy a cozy corner to read, ensuring that Kathy Reiter’s passion and joy live on for years to come.
All of this underscores an important truth—our schools are stronger because of community volunteers. Volunteering is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways community members can support their local schools, and the impact is undeniable. Whether it’s organizing materials, reading with students, or lending a helping hand to teachers, volunteers bring an extra layer of care and connection that enriches the entire school community. Their time and dedication create opportunities that might not otherwise exist, reminding us that when schools and communities work together, students thrive.