Cuyahoga Heights Schools (CHS) Intervention Specialist Beth Pavic has a motto that she lives by every day: Students First!
In the 10 years that she has been a teacher for students with disabilities in the district, Pavic has distinguished herself for going above and beyond. “What truly sets her apart is her willingness to take the time to offer comprehensive solutions, to make sure her colleagues fully understand the subject matter, and for maintaining high expectations for her students to push them to reach their full academic potential,” said colleague Lyndsey Wisniewski. “This level of commitment makes her an invaluable asset to our school district.” It is why Wisniewski nominated Pavic to receive the Staff Spotlight award for February 2025.
“Her commitment to her students is unwavering,” said Wisniewski. “She demonstrates remarkable openness to new ideas and is committed to helping students succeed while consistently upholding strict academic standards. Wisniewski lauded Pavic for making everyone feel welcomed and part of the “Heights” family. She willingly provides one-on-one mentoring sessions to staff members to ensure their success in the classroom, makes herself available outside regular hours to answer urgent questions, and often provides guidance, for example, by responding to emails within hours to keep everything moving forward.
“She will check in and make sure you are okay and not feeling overwhelmed,” added Wisniewski. When faced with challenging student situations, Pavic will develop Individualized Intervention Plans (IEPs) and maintain detailed documentation of student progress, ensuring that no student falls through the cracks. She actively participates in meetings, offering thoughtful suggestions and volunteering to create supplementary materials to further meet students’ needs.
“Working at Cuyahoga Heights Schools has confirmed the fact that I love teaching,” said Pavic, who delivers specially designed instruction in co-taught classes to which she is assigned. She most enjoys working with students in English classes. She also runs study skills classes, where classroom material is reviewed and retaught, gives specially designed instruction, and works on transition goals for some high school students.
Prior to joining CHS, Pavic taught for approximately 11 years each in two other school districts. “Cuyahoga Heights has been my favorite,” she noted. “I have worked with some amazing teachers who go above and beyond for the students they teach.” said Pavic “The students at Cuyahoga Heights High School are very respectful and appreciative of the assistance they receive.”
Outside the classroom, Pavic loves to spend time with her family, including her husband who runs a successful business, and three adult children – two sons and a daughter and their spouses – and six grandchildren. Pavic is also proud of the fact that she is a first-generation American on her father’s side of the family.
“Pavic stands out for supporting everyone in the district community – from students and fellow teachers to staff and administrators. Her dedication goes far beyond standard expectations,” added Wisniewski. “Her genuine admiration for Cuyahoga Heights shines through in everything she does, making her an inspiring presence.”
Pictured: Lyndsey Wisniewski (left) and February Staff Spotlight recipient Beth Pavic (right).