The CFIS team proposed the memorial bench, with funding provided by the Chagrin Falls Boosters, PTO, and the Educational Foundation Student Board. It offers a place to pause, connect and remember a teacher who brought warmth, creativity and humor to the school.

During her 20 years teaching fifth and sixth grades, Katy encouraged students to be curious, persevere and believe in themselves. Through classroom lessons and Rocket Club, she helped them try new things, learn from mistakes and take pride in what they could create.

“Katy touched the lives of countless students. They may not remember every equation or lesson, but they will always remember how she made them feel seen, believed in, and capable of more than they thought possible,” said Mandy Marlo, Katy’s friend and co-worker.

The bench will serve as a lasting reminder of Katy’s kindness and the encouragement she shared with generations of students. “Katy was such an important part of CFIS, and her impact on our students and staff will be felt for a long time. She cared deeply about kids and had a way of making learning fun while always pushing students to believe in themselves. I love that this bench gives us a place to remember Katy and the difference she made here. She will always be a part of the CFIS family.” Curtis Howell, Principal of Chagrin Falls Intermediate School Shared

Now, as students, staff and families pass the bench each day, it will be more than a place to sit. It will be a reminder of Katy’s laughter, her love for teaching and the countless students whose lives are better because she was their teacher. While Katy is deeply missed, the impact she made at CFIS will continue to be felt for generations to come.