For Ken Dorfman, being a teacher at Eden Autism is more than just a job — it’s his passion.
Dorfman joined Eden in 1981, and he has been an integral part of the Eden family ever since. As the lead teacher of High School 4, he helps students learn key employment and life skills. However, his commitment to Eden’s students extends far beyond his work in the classroom.
Over the course of his career, Dorfman has been involved with just about every aspect of the Eden School, including extracurricular programs, community outings, and Special Olympics. Perhaps most importantly, he has consistently been a source of support for Eden families, assisting parents with behavioral challenges and offering extra help through tough times.
Dorfman’s generosity hasn’t gone unnoticed. “Ken was the best teacher, and he was the best helper,” said Eden participant Adam Bloomberg, who often asks to see his former teacher when he returns to the Eden School.
Ken is the longest tenured Eden Autism employee, and it’s a role he doesn’t take lightly. “I am honored,” he said. “A lot of people come to me for things, and I try to lead by example.”
Dorfman’s passion for helping others began long before he started working at Eden. Growing up, he would play with special needs children who lived in his development, often teaching them various skills and stepping in when other children would bully them. He knew early on that teaching was the only thing he wanted to do, and he has worked to create a legacy of compassion and enthusiasm that has helped generations of Eden families.
“I feel like that’s why we’re put on this earth — to help people less fortunate than us and make people feel good, to put a smile on their faces,” said Dorfman. “That’s been my whole outlook for as long as I can remember.”