A SusanvilleStuff photo feature
by Melissa Blosser
On Thursday March 21, 2013 parents, professionals, families and teachers packed the school gym at Meadow View school to recognize those who have made a difference in the lives of children with special needs in Lassen County during the first annual Appreciation Night. Applications were submitted to the county office of education by parents of special needs children, and recognition was given during ceremony where stories of appreciation were read to the crowd.
The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) and the Lassen County SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Area) organized the event and after receiving several applications were able to plan a fun filled event for parents, teachers, and those in the Special needs Community to enjoy.
Those who were recognized included Mike Rockey, Tammy Fleckenstein, Bobi Gage, Jenny Floyd, and Gayle Wilburn. Honorable mention went to Denise Bosse, Greg Dood, William Freitas, SusanGeorge, Tammie Stone and Mary Ann Murin.
“We decided to hold this event because so many people in our community are touching the lives of children with special needs and are often overlooked,” said CAC president Jamie Stevens.
Dave Howard, Meadow View School principal was the MC and read each nomination submitted by the parent to the audience. Each person nominated was also given a gift of appreciation as well as greeted by the family.
Many of the nominations spoke about the incredible work each applicant had done to help children with special needs, and tears of appreciation were shed as each parent thanked the individuals for their honorable dedication.
“No one has ever done anything like this for me before,” said Bobi Gage. ” I am just so blessed to have had this opportunity.”
The night ended with a silent auction and attendees mingling.
The CAC is currently looking for more representatives. If you are interested in joining CAC contact the Lassen County Office of Education 257-7266.
“We had such a great turn out for the evening,” said Stevens. “I enjoyed presenting the awards to people so deserving and couldn’t have done it with out Alex Harwood, Debbie Baehler, David Howard Michelle Deval and our sponsors. We are already looking forward to next year.”
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