Staff Spotlight: Ms. Kara Nies

Meet Our Physical Therapist Ms. Kara Nies! 
  
Where did you grow up and what brought you to Tobin? 
I grew up in North Reading and now live in Andover with my husband and three children (John 16, Charles 14, and Lucille 12).  I went to Boston University and first worked at Franciscan Children’s Hospital after graduating.  While working part time at Spaulding Rehab, I had the pleasure and luck to have treated the son of a CPS occupational therapist who let me know about a physical therapist opening.  I was very happy to make the switch to the educational setting where I am able to support the gross motor development of students while working with a highly collaborative interdisciplinary team of educators and therapists.  Over my 21 years in Cambridge, I have worked in 9 out of the 11 elementary buildings and this is my second stint at Tobin where I hope to stay!  

What is your role at Tobin?
I am a physical therapist providing services for students in Special Start and the SCALE Program.  

What is your favorite time of year?
Summer!  I love to be outside and the long days make me happy.  

Who was your favorite teacher at school and why?
I had my mother as a teacher for freshman algebra so I suppose I should say Mrs. Russo.  I also have very fond memories of Ms. Stern, my 3rd grade teacher, who created a very fun learning environment and fostered a love of reading.

Skiing in Aspen or sunning in the tropics? 
Skiing in Aspen.  The beaches of New England are beautiful so no need to travel for the sun.  Skiing in deep snow and no ice was a new experience on a recent trip out west that is hard to find here.

What is a hobby you have outside of school? 
I love to ski with my family!  I also enjoy cooking and baking.  

Favorite movie? 
Hard choice.  I will always watch The Heat, Inside Out, Silver Linings Playbook and Forrest Gump everytime they are on.  

Dark or milk chocolate? 
Dark every time!