For Ms. Catherine Roberson, teaching at Klein Forest High School isn’t just a job; it’s coming home.
A Golden Eagle alumna herself, Ms. Roberson now leads Klein Forest’s Early Learning Program, where high school students gain hands-on experience working with preschool children. Years ago, she sat in those same classrooms as a student, inspired by her own teacher, Ms. Susan Dorsey, to pursue a career in early childhood education. Today, she’s helping a new generation discover that same passion.
“I took the class that I teach now,” Ms. Roberson said. “My teacher really encouraged me to follow that path and even told me one day I’d come back and take her job.”
In many ways, that prediction came true.
After graduating from college and working in a daycare, she was offered an opportunity to return to her alma mater. She hasn’t looked back since.
Inside her classroom, learning goes far beyond what is expected. Students in the Early Learning program help run a preschool program on campus, interacting with young children while developing leadership and communication skills.
“One of the most powerful parts of the program is watching students grow,” she said. “Some start out quiet or unsure, but over time, they find their voice.”
She recalls one high school student who was afraid to speak up during her first year in class.
“Seeing her voice grow over the years was so cool,” Ms. Roberson said. “By her senior year, she was confidently leading lessons and directing the classroom.”
In addition to helping many students discover a passion for teaching, Ms. Roberson also has a goal of helping students develop real-world skills they can use anywhere. Her goal is to help students develop real-world skills they can use anywhere.
“Students practice professional communication, answer classroom phones, speak with parents, and handle real responsibilities that mirror a workplace environment,” Ms. Roberson said. “Even if they don’t end up working with kids, they’re learning how to talk to people, how to be professional, and how to build relationships.”
Those skills pay off. Ms. Roberson often hears from school leaders who say graduates of the program stand out for their leadership and professionalism.
The program also creates a strong sense of community. Because students spend multiple class periods together, they form friendships across social circles as they work together, building meaningful bonds with the preschoolers who look up to them as role models.
“They realize little eyes are watching them,” she said. “It makes them want to be better.”
That impact has become even more personal in recent years. Ms. Roberson’s own daughter now participates in the preschool program, giving her a parent’s perspective on the work her students are doing.
“I see what they’re doing,” she said. “And it’s awesome. I’m watching my daughter learn new skills, everything from recognizing letters to drawing family pictures. These are all things that my students are teaching her, and it’s made my time teaching my students even more personal and special.”
Ms. Roberson says her students are what motivate her every day.
She looks forward to returning after breaks and holidays and seeing her students again, excited simply to be together. Moments like that remind her why the work matters.
“When they’re waiting outside your door ready to start the day, it makes everything worth it,” she said.
For Ms. Roberson, teaching isn’t just about lessons; it’s about building confidence, nurturing compassion, and helping students discover who they can become.
Thank you, Ms. Roberson, for all the love and support you give to our Golden Eagles. Your #KleinFamily appreciates you.
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