Hello!–As we near the end of cold and dreary winter days, it’s time to spring forward with a new episode of EXTRAordinary People, beginning Monday, March 4 at shirleywachtel.com and streaming.  Meet Kate Lancaster, an inspiring teacher and advocate for ending the stigma associated with mental health.  I hope you enjoy “meeting” Kate, and warmer days filled with family, friends, and joy…–Shirley  FOR MORE ON KATE’S WORK, CONTACT mindingyourmind.org

KATE LANCASTER is in her ninth year working as a middle school teacher at Jamesburg Public Schools. She is also a certified Reading Specialist and was recognized as an Exemplary Educator for the 2023-2024 school year for her strong knowledge and skills, inspiring presence, and positive impact on students, colleagues and the school community as a whole. Kate’s own experience, as well as her work in the public school system, connected her with the Minding your Mind nonprofit and she is now heavily involved volunteering for their organization through the annual A Celebration of Life gala in Spring Lake, NJ. Her efforts have assisted in fundraising close to $300,000 over the past three events. She is passionate about ending the stigma associated with mental health issues and takes pride in her commitment to making a difference in her community.