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Preschool Teachers

Susan Rhoads
“Miss Sue”

Preschool & Special Education Teacher

I was born and raised in Iowa but moved to Massachusetts after college.  I have a Bachelor’s Degree in The Growth and Development of Children from Iowa State University and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Fitchburg State University.  This is my 15th and final year as a preschool teacher at Gateway.  Previously, I worked in Granby, MA for 16 years as a teacher and coordinator of their integrated preschool program.  I also worked for 6 years at the May Institute working with children with Autism.  I live in Northampton with my husband. I have an adult son, Jasper, who lives outside of Boston.  In my free time I enjoy going on walks, cooking, doing yoga, and reading (when I have time).

Lynn Thomson
"Mrs. Thomson"

Preschool & Special Education Teacher

I have been a part of the Gateway Regional School District as a preschool teacher since 2000, with a brief time away to start my family.  I earned my Bachelor’s in Education with a concentration in Early Childhood Education from Westfield State University in 1999 and then continued on to earn a Master’s Degree in Special Education. I hold a Massachusetts’ Teacher certification in Early Childhood Education PK-3 and Moderate Special Needs PK-8.    I am passionate and dedicated to supporting the foundational skills of our youngest learners so that they can reach their fullest potential in all developmental areas.  I strive to create a classroom of fun and learning where students feel valued,appreciated and learn how to understand themselves and the world around them.  I live in Westfield, Massachusetts with my husband and three daughters, Caitlynn, Ceileigh and Caroline.  Outside of school, I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with my family.

Kaitlyn Martinico
"Mrs. Martinico"

Preschool & Special Education Teacher 

I hold a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education with and without disabilities, and a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). I am in my fifth year of teaching preschool, with three of those years being here at Gateway. Prior to teaching, I gained valuable experience working as a Child and Family Social Worker. I currently live in Easthampton, MA, with my husband and our dog Copper. In my free time, I enjoy baking, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends.

Miranda Kortes
"Miss Miranda"

Preschool & Special Education Teacher

I’m proud to be in my first year as a teacher. Before becoming a teacher, I spent five years as a paraprofessional at a small elementary school in Chesterfield and worked as a nanny for several wonderful families. My journey as an educator began back in high school, where I completed multiple internships in elementary classrooms. From there, I continued pursuing my passion for teaching in early childhood centers while taking classes at HCC, eventually earning my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from UMass.
A little about me — I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time outdoors. You can often find me hiking with my golden retriever, out on my kayak, or enjoying live music. I also love spending time with my niece and nephews.
I have always been passionate about working with children and find this work incredibly rewarding. I believe learning should be fun, and that every child deserves to feel welcome, safe, and valued. I am so excited to be part of this community and to support my students as they grow!