Westview News & Highlights

Congratulations to Gina Rafferty, recipient of The Westview School's Donna Marshall Non-Instructional Person of the Year Award. This award recognizes a non-instructional staff member whose dedication and service have an extraordinary impact on Westview's growth and success through support of students, teachers, and administration.

For anyone who has worked alongside Gina, the honor comes as no surprise.

Although Gina’s official title at Westview is Information Technology, Gina's journey into education began with sports. Fourteen years before joining Westview, she was Coach Rafferty, leading volleyball, soccer, and tennis teams.

"My education path came through coaching," said Gina. "I was talked into coaching junior high school volleyball, which evolved into PE, then high school soccer and tennis."

When a move brought her back to Houston, Gina "stumbled" across Westview while searching for another IT position. Although she had worked in technology before, special education was completely new to her.

"In my previous experience in education, I have always been a coach," said Gina. "I pushed students in a different way. So, Westview students challenged me to be patient, understanding, and to learn to meet each student where they are."

That philosophy quickly became one of the things she loves most about Westview.

"Many people told me when I first started, 'If you have met one person with autism, you have met one person with autism.' Every student is unique and special in their own way. This IS Westview! We truly do meet every student where they are. I love this!

There isn't really a "typical day" for Gina. She may spend the morning solving technology issues, helping prepare for MAP testing, or customizing iPads for a Lower Elementary classroom. You could also find her supporting drama in Largent Hall for a stage production, tutoring a student in math, or coaching a teacher with a new technology tool.

Her colleagues describe her as dependable, patient, efficient, and always willing to jump in wherever she's needed.

"Gina wears a thousand hats and excels in every role she takes on. Her knowledge, dedication, and willingness to jump in wherever needed make an enormous difference every single day."
Another colleague added, "Our teachers truly could not do their jobs effectively without her unwavering support, and our school is a better place because of her hard work and commitment."

Despite working largely behind the scenes, Gina's impact is felt by students and staff every day.

"I hope I do a good job of making everyone feel like when they need something from me, it's important," said Gina. "No matter how small it might be. I try to take care of it when they immediately ask for it."

For Gina, the recognition is deeply meaningful.

"It is a wonderful feeling to know you are appreciated for what you do. It is a special compliment to be recognized by everyone on campus."

From solving technology challenges to building meaningful relationships with students, Gina exemplifies the servant-hearted spirit of Westview. Her willingness to step in wherever needed, her commitment to helping others succeed, and her leadership make her a truly deserving recipient of the Donna Marshall Non-Instructional Person of the Year Award.