Meet Catarena

Catarena Cathcart MAEd. is a dedicated and accomplished Special Education Teacher and Curriculum Supervisor at Strong Foundations. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Hartford in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Elementary and Special Education. Recently, she earned her Master of Arts in Special Education with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder from the University of Saint Joseph. Catarena joined Strong Foundations in 2016 during the inaugural Summer Social Club Program and has since made significant contributions to the center's growth. She has been involved in various capacities, including the development of a comprehensive center-wide curriculum and the coordination of activities for both students and parents. Additionally, she has played a key role in implementing protocols used by families and staff across Strong Foundations. Beyond her work at Strong Foundations, Catarena has gained valuable experience working with children diagnosed with autism, behavioral and social challenges, and various learning disabilities in both inner-city and suburban public schools. She firmly believes in the right of every individual to learn and is committed to finding effective teaching methods for all students. Outside of her professional life, Catarena is an avid traveler with a passion for exploring the world. She has taken the opportunity to study abroad in New Zealand and has also visited Spain, England, and France. In addition to her love of travel, Catarena is known for her fondness for pineapples, reading, Disney, and movies.