May 19, 2017 -- Two members of Tiger Nation recently received the Annual Excellence in Education Awards, which recognize the achievements of students with disabilities, peers who have built meaningful relationships with them and outstanding educators who instruct and support their learning.
The awards are hosted by the State Support Team Region 3 in partnership with the Educational Service Center of Cuyahoga County.
Alphonso Bates received the Outstanding Student Achievement Award. This award recognizes, celebrates and honors students with disabilities and acknowledges their outstanding achievements, both academic and non-academic. Alphonso, a sophomore at Heights High School, is an exceptional young man who is achieving great things both in and outside of the classroom. He has excelled in inclusive academic settings and participated in the Heights High Marching Band.
Sally Hanrahan received the Outstanding Educator Achievement Award. This award recognizes, celebrates and honors educators (including administrators, general education teachers, intervention specialists, and related service staff) who have provided exemplary instructional strategies and creative programming that promotes educational results for students with disabilities. Sally, an Intervention Specialist at Gearity Preschool, is an exceptional educator who has served the preschool special needs population of the District for 19 years. Below are some thoughts from her colleagues.
"There is not enough I can say about Sally. I think the most salient attribute is that she is 100% child centered. Children immediately recognize this and respond to her."
"Not only has she been an asset to the children of CH-UH, she has provided her colleagues with a wealth of skills and knowledge. I am lucky to have had the opportunity to work with her. I am a better professional because of her."
"Sally is highly dedicated to the children and families that we serve. She has dedicated her career to the education of young children through developmentally appropriate practice and the inclusion of all children. Sally has a passion for not only educating young children but in helping parents understand how children learn and assisting them in being advocates and teachers for their own children. She has a wonderful sense of humor, finds joy in each and every child, is almost always smiling, and understands that even the smallest bit of progress is still progress and should be celebrated."