LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Kavitha Rathinam

Position: Middle School Math GT Teacher
School: Carver Edisto Middle School
School District: Orangeburg County School District
City, State: Cope, SC

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Comments (85)

Rachel Langston Posted over a year ago

She is a great person. When covid hit and my son had to do his work at home I was lost doing algebra. She went above and beyond. Making videos for us to understand. Great great person.

Swetha Jayanna Posted over a year ago

I have met Kavitha maam in person and seen from very near. She is a very humble person. Whatever the help you ask she will go out of the box and help. She is a selfless person. She really really deserves the award.

Beulah Jonnalagadda Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam is a wonderful teacher i got to know in my career, she is very kind and supportive. And jumps in to help, guide, encourage the students and teachers anytime. She deserves the award!!

Sharon Jackson Posted over a year ago

Ms Rathinam spent many days of after school tutoring with my daughter, Lana, who is now in the 11th grade. She was determined to help Lana understand algebra. She wasn't just teaching algebra, but was giving Lana confidence to succeed. We are forever thankful for Rathinam for investing so much time in Lana and not giving up on her students.

Cynthia King Posted over a year ago

Congratulations! This is a well deserved recognition and honor for you. You are an amazing person and math teacher.

Silene Stephens Posted over a year ago

I am so happy to see a colleague and friend be nominated for this award! I’ve seen first hand the drive and dedication Dr. Rathinam has for perfecting her craft of teaching!

Amy Thompson Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam was such a blessing to our daughter. She helped her succeed not only in the classroom but also in her goals outside of the classroom. Her passion for teaching is evident in the way her students love and respect her. Mrs. Rathinam would be an excellent example to represent your award.

Ann-Marie Posted over a year ago

A hard working educator who is always developing professionally to better cater to meet the needs of her students.

Ravi Posted over a year ago

The teacher demonstrates a strong commitment to students learning, consistently creating an engaging classroom environment diverse & personalized support, resulting in postive students outcome & a noticeable passion for ther subject matters. You are great in everything. And u work hard lot in subjects and as wel for life matters." your loving brother Ravi."

Timothy Crosby Posted over a year ago

Dr Rathinam + Teaching = Goated

scarlet Posted over a year ago

Wonderful teacher, she explains the work well and helps if you need help. Very nice person overall.

Adam Cross Posted over a year ago

Amen. W Dr. Rathinam

reshanona hubert Posted over a year ago

My favorite teacher!!!!shes so bestie fr!!!

Yamir Larkson Posted over a year ago

She's chill ig on cuh

Wally Hughes Posted over a year ago

rathinam is so pretty and shes a good teacher.

Karlee f Posted over a year ago

w algebra 1 teacher

jamar Posted over a year ago

Mrs Rathinam is a very nice, kind, and caring teacher. She is very helpful when it comes to her students with their work. I am glad to have her as my teacher.

curtis Posted over a year ago

w teacher

robert Posted over a year ago

your a great teacher

Pubert Velveeta-Cheese Scott-Jellybean jr. Posted over a year ago

good job

Amir'e Huggins Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is a very hardworking, kind and respectful teacher.

jamar Posted over a year ago

Mrs Rathinam is a very nice, kind, and caring teacher. She is very helpful when it comes to her students with their work. I am glad to have her as my teacher.

Cameron Morris Posted over a year ago

she is a great teacher

Serenity Martinez Posted over a year ago

I like Dr.Rathinam she is nice to me and she helps me do my work.

Kierslin Hughes Posted over a year ago

Mrs rathinam is one of the most helpful teachers, she also is really nice. She is more like a friend than a teacher you can always talk to her and she will give you her best advice.

Dr.Dinglefingers Reginald standerfeild-johnson Posted over a year ago

A great teacher who is dedicated to her students and helping them learn the materials to her best knowledge.

Sridhar Koneru Posted over a year ago

Your nomination as a Life Changer of the year is truly well-deserved! Your commitment to making a positive difference in people's lives is inspiring. Thank you for all the support you gave me and other teachers in our school . Congratulations, and keep shining.

marina mukkarigari Posted over a year ago

She is an Awesome teacher, very helpful and a good soul. she deserves this and is a perfect nominee.

Gabrielle Vogt Posted over a year ago

So glad to be at a school with such a well-rounded and resourceful educator! She knows her stuff and her work speaks for her undoubtly. She is a great role-model for new teachers and will help in any way that she can. GO MRS. RATHINUM!

Rhonda c jennings Posted over a year ago

There are teachers, and then there are those rare individuals who redefine what it means to educate and inspire. Dr. Rathinam is one of those people—a truly compassionate and dedicated teacher who goes above and beyond for students and colleagues alike. Whether it’s organizing meaningful activities that bring our school community together, or simply offering a listening ear when it’s needed most, Dr. Rathinam leads with kindness and unwavering commitment. Thank you for making our school a better place every day!

Trint adams Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam is a great teacher she has helped me with math and a lot other things shes smart intelligent and overall a good person I'm glad to call her my math teacher if u see this keep it up ur helping a lot of kids and probably teachers too hope to see u when I come back if not all I want to say is thank u

Eunice Jennings Posted over a year ago

It is indeed a pleasure to nominate Dr. Rathinam for the LifeChanger of the Year Award. She exemplifies the essence of someone who is dedicated in helping her students grow and become successful in the classroom as well as in the community. Dr. Rathinam is one of our most reliable and treasured teachers here at Carver Edisto Middle School. She strives each and every day to give her students the very best education. She pays equal attention to all of her students and provides them with engaging lessons and effective strategies to ensure their success. Dr. Rathinam is one of those teachers who leaves a lasting impression on all of her students. I admire Dr. Rathinam's ability to monitor and adjust to any situation. She goes above and beyond her duties to make sure that not only her students are taken care of, but her colleagues as well. She offers her support and resources to teachers, all the while, promoting the growth of our students in a collaborative effort to ensure academic success.

Abhilash Deva Rajan Posted over a year ago

I just wanted to take a moment to share something special about my friend Kavita. She is, without a doubt, one of the finest math teachers I have ever known. Her dedication and passion for teaching are truly inspiring. What stands out most is her ability to bring out the hidden potential in every student she works with, ensuring they not only understand the subject but also gain confidence in their abilities. Beyond her professional life, Kavita is an exceptional person—one of the kindest and most selfless individuals I know. She constantly thinks about the well-being of others and is deeply involved in her community and church. Whether it's offering support or motivating others to reach their best, she gives so much of herself to help those around her. I feel fortunate to know someone as remarkable as Kavita, and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge all the good she does both in and out of the classroom.

Lana Posted over a year ago

Mrs.Rathinam was my math teacher in 8th grade. When I was struggling with math she did after school tutoring just to help me. She still checks up on me every time I see her. She is an amazing person and always willing to love and care for her students.

Myleen Caguindagan Posted over a year ago

I’ve had a chance working with Ms. Kavitha since we’re both Lead teachers from our school. I was inspired with her achievements and she gave me words of advices how I can do the same. She’s smart and helpful. I asked her to be my consultant and mentor soon. I’m happy I get to know her.

Satish Raja Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam, as everyone calls her is my dear wife. I've seen her spending time creating activities at home for her students. I also come across some of her students and parents who talked about how awesome she is. I'm proud of her and the things she keeps doing relentlessly. She deserves this appreciation.

Dr. Amanda Steinmetz Posted over a year ago

Dr.Rathinam is a true asset to the school, district, and community. She is a passionate and dedicated individual that seeks to ensure all students possess the skills they need to be successful. In addition, she is a team player that enjoys what she does. Dr.Rathinam is already a life changer and is deserving of being honored as such.

Audrey M Irick Posted over a year ago

I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Kavitha Rathinam while we both were Teachers of the Year for the 2023-2024 school term. As a team player, Kavitha demonstrated acts of kindness in our community by volunteering to serve meals at the Samaritan House and raising monies for the less fortunate, spearheading a campaign for Toys for Tots at her home school, and volunteering her time to recruit teachers to work in our district on a Saturday. She made time to do all these things while she pursued her doctorate and earned her National Board Certification, which is extremely commmendable. Her work ethics exemplify who she is as a passionate educator. Not only is she setting the bar for her students, but for other educators to follow by being the epitome of a servant life changer who leads with love. I am very honored to recommend her for such a prestigious honor which is well-deserved.

Karibasappa Nagaraja Posted over a year ago

Dr. Kavitha is a very natural teacher with an inbuilt aptitude of art of teaching. She is a very talented math teacher, she inspire students to Lear and acquire math skills with any math anxiety and stress towards math as a subject. She always connects math concepts to everyday life which will immediately a usable tool for students to use in everyday life. She is a very kind and concern, loves and cares hers children so much. She is not only a great teacher, she is a very good human help others in difficult time. Dr. Kavitha is a great fortune for community, she continue to shape tender minds into a great future minds. I am really happy to say that I and Dr. Kavitha are from the same state in India.

Audrey Irick Posted over a year ago

I had the honor of serving with Mrs. Rathinam while she was a Teacher of the Year in 2023-2024. In that role, she demonstrated many acts of kindness by volunteering to serve meals at our local Samaritan house, raising money and spearheading a toy drive at her school for students in our district, and showing up on a Saturday to help recruit educators for our district. She is definitely is a team player and the epitome of a passionate life changer.

Showri Posted over a year ago

An asset for any educational institution

J'Laysia W. Posted over a year ago

The best math teacher out there in all honesty. She treats all her students with kindness and fairly. She's always there if you need help! ??

Kiersten Wilder Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam is my favorite teacher because she made the subject both engaging and fun while also building a strong relationship with me in the process. Her teaching style is clear and patient, always taking the time to explain concepts step by step until everyone understands. She creates a positive classroom environment where questions are encouraged, and no one feels afraid to ask for help. What I appreciated most is how she connects math to real-life situations, which makes the material more interesting and relevant. Mrs. Rathinam's enthusiasm for teaching is contagious, and her support has helped me develop a stronger confidence in my math skills and have loved math ever since.

Madison Posted over a year ago

She is an amazing teacher and person in general. She loves all her students and cares for all of them. She is the best.

Kara Horoski Posted over a year ago

I am honored to express my support for Dr. Rathinam, whose dedication to teaching mathematics goes far beyond equations and formulas—she is truly a life changer. Through her unique ability to make math approachable and exciting, she not only builds confidence in her students but also fosters a love of learning that transcends the classroom. I have had the privilege to witness this first hand as her colleague for over seven years. Dr. Rathinam recognizes that every student learns differently and tirelessly adapts her teaching methods to meet individual needs, ensuring no one is left behind. Her enthusiasm for the subject is contagious, inspiring students to see math not as a hurdle but as a tool for unlocking opportunities. Beyond academics, she serves as a mentor, guiding students to believe in their own potential and encouraging them to take on challenges both in school and in life. Her impact is profound and lasting. Students leave her class not just with improved math skills but with a sense of self-worth, resilience, and curiosity that stays with them long after they’ve solved their last equation. It is educators like Dr. Rathinam who remind us that teaching is not just a profession but a calling. She changes lives every day, and we are fortunate to have her shaping the minds and futures of our students.

Wendy Huff Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is a great teacher who always goes above and beyond for not only her students but for everyone. She is always willing to assist in any way possible. She is so deserving of this Life Changer Award because she has changed the lives of many students.

Priscilla Hollington Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam is a teacher leader who is always willing to help her students whenever they grapple with understanding complex math problems or challenging mathematical concepts. She knows how to move seamlessly from educational theory to practice in the classroom. This ability supports students through the learning process—from exposure to application. Mrs. Rathinam is also a team leader who doesn’t mind working side by side with her colleagues to plan innovative and engaging lessons for all students. She understands that teachers working, planning, and growing together improves academic outcomes for students. Mrs. Rathinam is truly a life changer for the students, teachers, and families of Carver-Edisto Middle School.

Kimberly Cross Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam teaches my son and she is always available whenever I need to ask her a question. She is very caring and supports her students. Her class is a great learning environment for all students. She definitely deserves this award.

Johanna Marie Jareno Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is a very supportive colleague. It’s been a couple of months that I’ve known her in school but I never felt disregarded whenever I have questions or concerns about our work. She’s very accommodating and I see the gift of service in her. It’s good to work with people like her.

Zoe Posted over a year ago

Wonderful teacher, great homeroom experience ????

Janet Shafer Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is hard-working, caring, and passionate about teaching. I have been working with her for several years. She is a leader and always willing to help others. She is deserving of this award.

Tiffany Green Posted over a year ago

Dr Rathinam is one the educators that really care about her students and their needs my son has her for Algebra 1and he usually struggles in math but ever since he had Dr Rathinam he has been doing excellent in Math which shows the changes that she can make in a child’s life

Raini Calimag Posted over a year ago

Ms.Rathinum is more than a teacher—she’s like a best friend. I can go to her for anything, whether it’s help with school, advice, or just someone to talk to. She cares about all of us and always makes us feel supported. She truly deserves the LifeChanger award!

Clarke Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathiem is one of the best math teachers ever. She’s patient, compassionate, and funny. I remember countless occasions of when I didn’t understand something in class. She spent so much time helping me. She didn’t care how long it took. In other words, Dr. Rathiem is one of the best teachers ever.

josie Posted over a year ago

she’s the best teacher

John Posted over a year ago

Very nice person,is very smart and very hard working

Joe Posted over a year ago

She is a great teacher and the best forever

josie brown Posted over a year ago

my favorite teacher .she actually helps me understand my work

Therese M Harrison Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is an excellent teacher and mentor to all students. The passion and helpfulness Dr. Rathinam has towards her students is outstanding. Students look up to Dr. Rathinam and adore her because of the sincere love she shares. If you are ever in need Dr. Rathinam is ready to do whatever she can to assist. It's a joy to know and work with Dr. Rathinam, she's professional and personable.

Joselyn Jordan Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is the best homeroom teacher I could have she's so nice!!!!

Rajana Posted over a year ago

The best teacher I've ever had and an amazing person the most loving and caring and funny person

Lana Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is a really nice and helpful teacher. Whenever i don't fully understand a topic she slows down to make sure you get a full understanding of it. She's also really easy to talk to, and she actually disciplines bad kids instead of ignoring them as other teachers do, which disturbs the learning.

Veronica Smith Posted over a year ago

My son Justin Smith is in Mrs. Rathinam's math class. She is a great teacher and I appreciate the way that she keeps the parents informed about the students. Justin is doing well and he is learning well in her class. I'm really excited about his progress in her class. We are so happy that she's being nominated for this award!!

Shantasia Green Posted over a year ago

Very sweet and attentive to her students. It’s a pleasure having her as my daughters teacher.

Judith Sarkodie Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is a great inspiration for me. She is a colleague, we met not long but its like we've known ourselves for ages, due to her selflessness. I appreciate you, making each day special and loving anytime we are together. I appreciate you for always listening and being there to help me find my way through some aspect of life. Continue being a supportive person, spiritual person and a life changer to your family, friends, your colleagues as well as your students. YOU DESERVE THE BEST

Leigh Ann Farman Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam is a wonderful teacher who cares about her students’ well being and education. She communicates with parents well and is always eager to assist when needed. Two of my children had her and learned a lot from her.

Kimberly Washington Posted over a year ago

True passion for teaching. Very supportive and dedicated.

Ashley Ard Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is currently teaching my son math. She has been such a blessing to him and he has learned so much this year. She is very deserving of this award!

Nina Posted over a year ago

My daughter adores her??

Rose M morgan Posted over a year ago

Dr. Rathinam is an excellent educator. She is very knowledgeable and passionate about her work. she enjoys what she does, and I know her students enjoys having her as their teacher. She would be very deserving of the Life changer of the year award.

Adrienne M. McMichael Posted over a year ago

A dedicated, hard-working individual is what she is. So deserving of this award and many others, I highly recommend without any reservations.

Jadalee Hicher Posted over a year ago

Kavitha is such a pure, genuine and sweet soul. For the short time I have known her, she has become a very good friend and confidant. She’s a rock and shoulder to lean on. Just like her students, she motivates and pushes me to never give up on my studies when my cup gets full. She’s extremely supportive and always willing to help. She gives of herself, selflessly. Without a doubt, she’s deserving of this award.

Marquita J. Huggins Posted over a year ago

I am very proud to call Dr. Rathinam a collogue of mine in the short amount of time that I have known her. Dr. Rathinam is a great leader in the school community, they inspire both their peers and students through their professionalism, kindness, and unwavering commitment to excellence. They excel in collaboration, working closely with parents, colleagues, and administrators to ensure the best outcome for their students. Dr. Rathinam is a teacher who goes above and beyond to support their students, both academically and personally, creating a safe and inclusive environment for all. Dr Rathnam's commitment to their own professional growth and lifelong learning exemplifies the very best in the teaching profession.

Solomon Ohene Adu Posted over a year ago

Very hardworking, supportive and talented Educator

Elizabeth M Humphrey Posted over a year ago

From a first year teacher, to Math Department Chair, to Dr. Rathinam. This woman I call a great friend exemplifies a true passion for teaching. She enjoys teaching Math, building relationships, and ensuring her standards are connect with real-life applications. Knowing her for years a fuel to teach has never run dry, she bas the heart to help anyone. She loves her family and her students as well. My friend is well deserving of this honor. If anyone deserves its her. Good luck friend!!

Lacella Williams Posted over a year ago

I have known Kavitha for over nine years.She taught my Grandson Kejuan when she taught at Howard Middle School in Orangeburg SC. She loved her students and was an amazing teacher.Her teaching skills allowed her to me each student on their level of learning abilities.Kavitha and I keep in touch with each other and she’s my Friend.I wish the best for her and May Devine Favor be with Her!!!

Emoree Simpson Posted over a year ago

Mrs Rathinam has helped me in so many ways. From just being there for me with my math assignments or personally being my shoulder to lean on. I wouldn't have gotten through some of the things I went through without her. I'm so proud of everything she has overcame. I thank you Mrs. Rathinam.

Lathika Satishkumar Posted over a year ago

I am proud to call Dr. Kavitha Rathinam my favorite teacher and my mother. From being in her class as a honors student in the 8th grade and her supporting me through my achievements in high school, I am proud to call her "mom". She has a significant role in my life as my role model, my number one supporter in the crowds, and even my favorite person to watch a sad but happy romance movie. During my time in her class, I have seen how she cares for her students and helps them whether through math and other problems. She is a likable person all around by her students, colleagues, administrators, and even the community. She loves her students as if they were her own children. She prepares her students for standardized tests and offers her knowledge. Every evening, she would often ask herself, "What should I teach my class?" as she sits down to do her lesson planning for the week. She is very deserving of this award. She will never back down on any challenge and will always preserve. She is deserving of this award because she will always continue her higher education to further better her knowledge and the way she teaches in the classroom. I have seen first the late nights she stays up to work on her "hands-on" activities for her students. Seeing her these past years doing her NBCT and her doctorate degree pushed me as a high-schooler to work harder and persevere. She always believes in the motto, "Look on the bright side." I am honored to call her my mother and the person who does change students' lives.

Khyati Sinha Posted over a year ago

Dear Kavitha, I am truly fortunate to have you as my best friend and colleague. Your passion for teaching math truly inspires both your students and your colleagues. It’s clear why you were named Teacher of the Year! You’re not just a fantastic teacher, but also a supportive mentor to your peers. Your willingness to share strategies and ideas has made a positive impact on our entire team. The positive and inclusive environment you create in your classroom allows every student to feel valued and eager to learn. Your dedication to your students’ success is evident in everything you do. Thank you for going above and beyond every day. The relationships you build with your students are truly remarkable. They respect and trust you, which fosters a great learning atmosphere. You’re a role model not just for your students, but for all of us. Your commitment to excellence is truly inspiring!

Evelyn Arreaza Posted over a year ago

She is a teacher that is very supportive and very dedicated to her students.

Tiffany Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam is such an amazing teacher! I’ve seen where she has gone above and beyond as an Educator with her students. I’ve also seen the impact that she has on her fellow colleagues. Always there ready to lend a helping hand and not leaving anyone behind. She is an amazing Educator and person all around.

Jewel Coleman Posted over a year ago

She changes the life of every student she teaches. She is a mentor and a friend to all. Math is tough in and by itself. She makes them love it! She is very deserving to have this award.

Mercedes Walker Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Rathinam is an extremely passionate educator. She is adamant about reaching every last single one of her students and assisting them with mastering each concept. She works with individual students or groups who need additional instruction. She is compassionate and patient, which are the perfect characteristics that great teacher possesses. She goes the extra mile to assist her colleagues as well.

Lyneth Generoso Posted over a year ago

Ms. Rathinam is one very supportive, assisting, and caring friend, and a hard-working, and smart teacher of my former school.

M N Pai Posted over a year ago

When she was in India heading a school I have seen her putting efforts to change lives of many students …she has been a sincere teacher who loves her students to achieve in whatever they do and she will enjoy that glory of the student …she deserve the recognition life changer of the year