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Leading with Empathy

Meet Dr. Kara

As the 6th Head of School at The Schenck School and Executive Director of Read Source, Dr. Kara A. Loftin brings 25 years of experience and commitment to empowering students with exceptionalities. 

Previously, Dr. Kara served as the Head of School at The Craig School spearheading groundbreaking initiatives in programs and campus infrastructure. Additionally, her innovative approach led to the development of an executive function coaching-based “school within a school” at Wasatch Academy, recognized by the NAIS in 2018 for its transformative impact. Currently, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Dyslexia Alliance for Black Children and for Girl Talk, Inc.

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Kara shares her expertise on strengths-based education and learning differences at national conferences and her influence extends globally, having led workshops in Kuwait, India, and Japan. 

Dr. Kara has authored articles for Edutopia on teacher retention, literacy scaffolding, and strengths-based IEPs. Dr. Kara's scholarly work, published in Assessment for Effective Intervention and T-Care, underscores her commitment to advancing the field of special education. 

Earning an MBA from the University of Maryland University College and a Master of Education degree in Special Education, Dyslexia Concentration from Fitchburg State University, she completed her Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Dr. Kara is also a certified Dyslexia Practitioner (International Dyslexia Association and Wilson Reading System), holds certification as a Structured Literacy Specialist (CERI), and earned a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Northern Colorado. In 2021, Dr. Kara was the recipient of the Klingenstein Heads of School Fellowship at Teacher's College Columbia University.

She remains steadfast in her mission to uplift the potential and amplify the voice of every student she encounters.

kara loftin

Dr. KaraOne of the characteristics I felt immediately upon my first visit to The Schenck School and ReadSource was the unwavering belief in the full potential of each child.

dr kara and student

Dr. Kara's favorite moments

Our Head of School cherishes many special moments throughout the year that highlight the spirit and achievements of The Schenck School community. These favorite events, including Founder's Day, Soaring On, and Alumni Events, exemplify the heart and mission of The Schenck School, creating lasting memories for all involved.

Founder's Day

The Schenck School celebrates Founder's Day each year to honor David Schenck, the founder of our School. This special event is a time for students, faculty, and staff to come together and celebrate the legacy and impact of his work.

"I say often that I stand on the shoulders of a giant. Our Founder, David Schenck, infused joy, kindness, love, and a sense of play into every aspect of the student experience at The Schenck School. To carry on this legacy is an honor."

Soaring On Ceremony

The Schenck School's Soaring On ceremony is a cherished annual tradition celebrating the accomplishments and growth of our students as they prepare to transition to their next educational journey. This heartfelt event honors their hard work and resilience, marking a significant milestone in their academic lives.

Our students are exemplars of grit and determination. I have full confidence that they will be successful no matter what.

Reading in the classroom

Learning to read and to read well is a transformative process. We read, not to answer someone else's questions, we read to raise our own questions. We read to change, to grow, to think, and to live into our fullest possibility.

Alumni Events

The Schenck School's Alumni Events bring together former students to reconnect, share experiences, and celebrate their ongoing achievements. These gatherings foster a sense of community and continuity, honoring the lasting impact of their time at the school.

I continue to be amazed at the incredible success of our alumni. From business owners, entrepreneurs, doctors, and everything in between...the future is bright indeed for our Schenck School students!

Leadership Lens: Dr. Kara's Works