Tuesday, the “I am Hamilton” video feature spotlights Ali Windrow, a school psychologist at Hixson Elementary and Middle Valley Elementary. Ms. Windrow is in just her fifth year of working as a school psychologist, but she has made a significant impact on the schools and children she has served during that time, officials said.
“I wanted to become a school psychologist because I care about education, and I was always interested in psychology, so I found a way to combine the two,” said Ms.
Windrow. “The best part about working in an elementary school is getting to meet little baby kindergartners and watch them grow up through fifth-grade and get to know them.”
“I am Hamilton” spotlights the contributions of alumni, teachers, parents, students, support workers and community members in providing opportunities for children in the classrooms of Hamilton County Schools. "Better opportunities for children today mean a brighter future filled with possibilities for our graduates, their families, and the community," officials said.
“Ali goes above and beyond for each student she comes into contact with every single day,” wrote Kat Kittle, a fifth-grade teacher at Hixson Elementary, in her nomination for Ali. “I have never worked with a more caring, hard-working and innovative psychologist.
Ms. Kittle wrote about Ms. Windrow starting “Lunch Bunch,” where she takes a few students from each grade level for them to eat lunch together and build relationships by playing games while eating. She serves as the head coach for the school’s Girls on the Run, helped coach basketball and serves on the leadership team. Ms. Windrow is also the chair of the Hixson “Buddy” program.
“She has paired students who need assistance in some way with a staff member to form positive relationships and interactions,” added Ms. Kittle in her nomination. “She is a caring, hardworking team member who always has the students' best interest in mind.”
“Honestly, the best part is getting hugs in the hallway and being someone these kids can trust,” said Ms. Windrow.
To nominate someone for “I Am Hamilton,” send an email to communications@hcde.org with the name of the person you would like to nominate, the school the individual is connected to in Hamilton County Schools, the person’s title and what makes the individual a valued contributor to Hamilton County Schools. You can nominate a graduate, teacher, parent, student, support worker, community member or anyone playing a role in a school in the district. Also, include your name, school or location and title.
Pictured, left to right, Ali Windrow is presented her "I Am Hamilton" shirt by Hixson Elementary Principal Ursula Greene and Kat Kittle