School psychologist Kara Muthig wins top award

WITTENBERG — Kara Muthig was named the Wisconsin School Psychologist of the Year in a March 5 ceremony in Wisconsin Dells.

Each year, the Wisconsin School Psychologist Association gives the award.

“Kara is the best at what she does,” said Garrett Rogowski, superintendent of the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District, where Muthig works. “She is a tireless worker, trusted by staff, students and families, and is a servant leader that is fully committed to the personal and academic success of all of our students.”

Muthig graduated from the school psychology program at UW-Whitewater and did her internship at the Gillett School District during the 2000-01 school year before coming to Wittenberg-Birnamwood.

As a school psychologist, Muthig spends most of her time working with teams to problem-solve and put in place best practices to help students succeed academically and behaviorally. Part of her job involves interpreting data to help teams make decisions regarding programs and instruction, assess students to determine specific needs, consult with teachers and families to connect them with resources and provide staff development.

“Working in a small, rural district allows me the opportunity to get to know and to develop relationships with staff, families and students,” said Muthig. “I feel like Wittenberg-Birnamwood is a supportive, positive place to work, and I’m extremely grateful for all of the connections I’ve made over the years.”

Muthig acknowledges that working in a smaller district also means that it’s sometimes harder to connect families with outside resources. She notes that with teamwork between her and the staff and the families, they make that happen.

She feels it’s important to note that many staff members wear multiple hats to get everything done. For example, in addition to being the school psychologist, she is also the district assessment coordinator.

Regarding district-wide initiatives, Muthig says she is very proud to be working with Rogowski to provide professional development based on Shawn Achor’s work in positive psychology related to his parable, “The Orange Frog.”

“Outcomes of this training include increased happiness and a positive outlook, which leads to increased productivity and success,” said Muthig.

“One of the best things about receiving this award is that I was just being myself,” added Muthig.

“That statement alone speaks volumes to the kind of individual she is,” said Megan Marcks, director of pupil services at WBSD.

Marcks also noted that she is grateful for Muthig’s dedication, compassion and empathy toward every situation she encounters.

“I’m extremely proud to be recognized for this award and hope that it helps bring awareness to all of the positive things happening in Wittenberg-Birnamwood schools. I’ve been very fortunate to work in such a supportive community,” said Muthig.

The Wisconsin School Psychologist Association is the professional organization for school psychologists in Wisconsin.