Ann Hart, third-grade teacher at West Ridge Elementary School in Racine, draws upon her training in special education to help special needs children enjoy mainstream school activities. In 1990 she co-developed the "Adopt-a-Class" program, helping students with cognitive disorders gain self-confidence by partnering with buddies and participating in parties, art projects and field trips. This program has expanded into a successful classroom inclusion model that uses team teaching, peer tutoring and hands-on learning activities. Hart initiated the Cool Cat Club, a popular third-grade book club that has boosted children's enthusiasm for reading and is now being emulated at other grade levels. Stressing the preparation of children for real world activities, Hart devised a math unit with menus from a local restaurant, having each child devise a meal budget. The unit culminates with a visit to the restaurant at the end of the school year.
1981 Eastern Michigan University, B.A.
