Green Hope High School

Joyce Ratley

Joyce Ratley resurrected our faith in the Wake County schools. Our special needs child needed someone with patience and understanding. Our son had a terrible experience at Cary HS and was literally afraid of going to school. She welcomed him into her classroom and totally accepted him as is. She modified things to meet his needs and she slowly gained his confidence and love. She told me the other day in a meeting that Austin is the leader of the classroom and he has taken ownership of everyone in there. He looks after everyone and wants to help and knows that he belongs there. He asked everyday over Spring Break when he could go back to school. A sentiment that I don't think many students were asking daily. Ms. Ratley is an incrediblly special teacher. She helps parents of special needs children see the good in their children.