LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Olga Catoni was nominated by an anonymous family member.

Ms. Catoni is an outstanding role model, advocate, and teacher. She went into the teaching profession without realizing the impact she would have on others.  

Currently, Ms. Catoni teaches fifth grade at the School at Saint George Place. More importantly, she has been an advocate for the Hispanic community. Her love and passion inspired her to create a club for Spanish-speaking parents who otherwise would not be aware of the way the school is run. She holds a monthly meeting to disseminate information, answer questions, and help with any translation needed. Parents often thank her for giving them a sense of belonging at the school.

She invests her time in an ESL classroom due to her own struggles as an immigrant student from El Salvador. She has been through many tribulations in her life that have made her an incredible teacher who can relate to some of the struggles in education.

Additionally, Ms. Catoni stays after school for her homework club; another creation of hers to help students lacking the proper help or technology do their homework. Her homework club has 20 students who look for a quiet place to do their work or need a little extra help. She has also served on the SDMC and has earned many honors throughout her career. 

"I actually wish I could help her because her family has gone through many personal challenges," the nominator said. "She always has a smile and gives the kids 1000 percent. I know for a fact that she's committed to involving herself in each child's home life, ensuring a tight link with parents. I admire her so much because she has gone through the lowest of lows, yet has ensured that each child has felt special. Many parents want their next child to be in her fifth grade class."