The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District announced on Thursday, Jan. 9, that Alicia Rodarte-Gouldin, a paraprofessional at Mountain View Elementary, has been honored as the Governor’s Council on Disabilities and Special Education Paraeducator of the Year for the 2024-2025 school year.
“Ms. Rodarte-Gouldin’s unwavering dedication, compassion, and professionalism have made a profound impact on some of the school’s most vulnerable students. She works daily with children who have significant needs, managing physically and emotionally demanding situations with remarkable patience and resilience,” the school district said in a press release. “Ms. Rodarte-Gouldin provides a balance of firm guidance and unconditional support, ensuring that every child she works with feels valued and empowered to succeed.”
In addition to her daily responsibilities, Ms. Rodarte-Gouldin participates in the broader school community. She is a member of the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), Site Council, and Climate Committee and volunteers countless hours to support school events.
“Ms. Alice’s recognition as Paraeducator of the Year is a testament to her exceptional commitment to our students and school community,” said Hannah Dolphin, Principal of Mountain View Elementary. “Her passion for helping children thrive and her ability to foster a positive environment inspire us all. She is a tireless advocate for her students, a leader within our committees, and a shining example of what it means to put students first “
Ms. Rodarte-Gouldin’s commitment to her students and the school community exemplifies the spirit of inclusion, compassion, and excellence that the district strives to uphold,” said Superintendent Clayton Holland. “Paraprofessionals like Ms. Alice play a vital role in supporting students across our district. We encourage community members to join us in recognizing Ms. Rodarte-Gouldin and all special education paraprofessionals for their hard work and dedication.”
In its press release, the KPBSD said it “is proud to celebrate Ms. Rodarte-Gouldin’s remarkable achievements and her invaluable contributions to our schools.”
Her work embodies the district’s core values of inclusion, compassion, and excellence, and she serves as a shining example of the transformative role paraprofessionals play in education.
