Amrhein wins top educator award from chamber

Cathy Amrhein, a Batesville Primary School preschool aide who loves her students and cares for them like they are her own children, was awarded the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce 2010 Distinguished Educator plaque Jan. 28.

“I'm so grateful to have a job that's so satisfying,” the honoree said at the podium. “I would like to accept this in honor of all the wonderful support staffs we have at all the schools in Batesville.”

Each school day, Amrhein boards the preschool bus, fastens the youngest students into their car seats, then watches for medical and discipline problems on the ride. After assisting teacher Casey Cox during the two-and-a-half-hour morning class, the aide chaperones the students on the bus again. This year 12 youngsters attend preschool, although some may come three days a week.

Although not a licensed teacher, as a paraprofessional, Amrhein performs many duties that a licensed teacher does, both individually with students and in the classroom, pointed out BPS principal Melissa Burton, who nominated and introduced her.

For 17 years, she has worked in this BPS program for children ages 3-5 who have mild, moderate and severe developmental delays.

Burton emphasized, “It takes an extremely patient and kind person to work as a preschool paraprofessional ... She is a gentle, modest educator whose sole purpose is to help children.”

Amrhein admitted she adores “that age” and watching students mature. “It’s just so amazing to see the advances that they’ve made. I get really excited over the simplest things,” such as when a child learns to drink through a straw. “It’s just very rewarding.”

“Most challenging is the children who can’t communicate with you” because of difficulties hearing or speaking. “You try different ways to understand what they want. You can see the frustration on their faces.”

Burton reported, “Cathy is very knowledgeable with strategies to use with young children with developmental delays. She has gained this knowledge not only through experience, but with continued education. Over the past few years, she has completed 45 online courses for paraprofessionals.”

Born and raised in Hamburg, the daughter of the late Albert and Martha Meyer is one of 13 children. The principal joked, “I have quickly learned that she is related to half the town of Batesville.”

The 1964 Batesville High School graduate has been married to Steve Amrhein for 43 years. They have eight children: Stephen Amrhein, Lisa Flannery and Mary Meyer, Batesville; Annette Amrhein, Oldenburg; Michelle Lepper, West Harrison; Dan Amrhein, Grand Rapids, Mich.; Brian Amrhein, Orlando, Fla.; and Jason Amrhein, a Purdue University senior.

The active St. Mary of the Rock Catholic Church member has served as its ladies society vice president, secretary and treasurer. The sweet woman has been a religion teacher’s assistant for eight years, Hospice Fun Run and Walk volunteer for nine years and regular blood donor. Amrhein also is a member of the Tri-County Council, which aids special needs students; and Batesville Music Boosters.

In addition to planning overnights with her 10 grandkids, the summer gardener enjoys sewing bridesmaid and even wedding dresses for her daughters. She adds, “One of my fun things to do (is) bake all kinds of cookies,” then share them at school, of course.

Already a positive influence within her family, now Cathy Amrhein is extending her reach. According to her principal, “she is the type of educator and person that is going to inspire you through her actions – her dedication, commitment and love for other children and people. She inspires through her willingness to help others regardless of the sacrifice to herself. I know she inspires me to try to be a better person.”

Debbie Blank can be contacted at 812-934-4343, Ext. 113; or debbie.blank@ batesvilleheraldtribune.com.

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