Congratulations to the November Central Rivers AEA staff and the entire River Hills School who were nominated for a Difference Maker Award by our LEA partners (school administrators, superintendents, principals, teachers, etc.). For our November nominees, here is what our LEA partners that nominated you had to say:
Nicole Markey, Special Education Consultant
“Nicole helped me tremendously as a first year special education teacher! She helped me plan and schedule my first IEP meetings. She reminds me about important things in such a kind and respectful way. She always supports me when I’m feeling stressed out. Nicole is beyond caring and I appreciate her so much!” -Independence CSD teacher
Amanda Honnold, School Psychologist
“Amanda has gone above and beyond supporting our district for years. She works tirelessly as an advocate for students. She has worked well in guiding new and experienced special education teachers in finding the right accommodations and curriculum. At a time when schools are short on resources to meet the many different needs of children, Amanda is that light that helps us do the best we can to serve students and support staff. She ensures that all students are getting the support they need!” -South Hardin teachers & Hubbard Radcliffe teacher
Hannah Hanson, School Psychologist
“Hannah’s communication, leadership and professionalism have all made a tremendously positive impact on our district. She has “hit the ground running” as our shared (with AEA) special education director. She has established some positive changes and did it with excellent leadership. Our district is better because Hannah is a part of it. We are greatly appreciative of all her work! Our motto is, “Be A Difference Maker,” and she is doing it!” -Union CSD teacher
Greg Koppes, Regional Administrator
“Greg is always available to assist with needs at our four buildings. He is extremely knowledgeable and works hard to assist our staff, students and parents. Because of his knowledge, Greg is a trusted resource that we all use to assist, as we navigate through the many services that CRAEA provides our students and staff.” -Sumner-Fredericksburg CSD school administrator
Amy Sehi, Speech-Language Pathologist
“Amy does such an amazing job not only with students but with educating staff. She empowers the staff to provide interventions. She educates the paraeducators and provides professional learning to staff. She is such an asset to our schools. Amy is compassionate, kind, caring and we are so lucky to have her!” -Mason City CSD school administrator
Jari Sherburne, Work Experience Coordinator
“Jari was our favorite! She would work tirelessly in making sure Olivia always got what she needed. Because of Jari and all of the Central Rivers AEA physical, occupational and speech therapists, Olivia has gone leaps and bounds farther than we ever thought she would – she is growing and flourishing!” -Jenna Scott, mother of former River Hills student
The entire River Hills School
“River Hills School has some of the best teachers and staff that provide such great learning and experiences for those kids… for our kids! The school is full of wonderful people – thank you all and keep up the amazing work!” -Parents of past and current students/community members