Based in Blaine, Washington, Catherine G. Hicks began her work in education as a student services counselor for the American/Russian Educational Exchange in Bellevue, and later as a crisis intervention counselor at CEDU Family of Services/Ascent. In 2012, Catherine G. Hicks joined the Meridian School District as a special education teacher, a position that involved teaching students with low-incidence learning disabilities, including dyslexia and autism, and complex health impairments, such as Down syndrome and seizure disorders.

After six years with the Meridian School District, Ms. Hicks transitioned to the Blaine School District, where she continued to work as a special education teacher and inclusion specialist, from September 2018 through December 2025. Throughout her career in education, she has gained considerable experience with individualized education plans and related student and family services.

Ms. Hicks’ academic background includes undergraduate degrees in Russian language and literature, Russian and East European studies, and a post-baccalaureate degree in special education. She earned a master of science in curriculum and instruction from Western Governors University, and national teaching certification as an Exceptional Needs Specialist from the National Boards for Professional Teaching Standards, valid through 2029. She holds a Washington State special education teaching certificate valid through 2031.