Dynamic Educators First (DEF) proudly announces the winners of its prestigious Heart Award, a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable dedication of school psychologists and social workers in Illinois. These educators have displayed exceptional commitment to nurturing young minds, fostering resilience, and creating a positive impact on the lives of the students they serve and the communities they work in.
CHICAGO, Sept. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Dynamic Educators First (DEF) proudly announces the winners of its prestigious Heart Award, a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable dedication of school psychologists and social workers in Illinois. These educators have displayed exceptional commitment to nurturing young minds, fostering resilience, and creating a positive impact on the lives of the students they serve and the communities they work in.
According to Peter DeWitt, writing for Education Week, "Students walk into schools at a disadvantage that they cannot control because it is due to their home environment or social-emotional issues. That achievement or social-emotional gap that we see as they enter our doors is always at risk of becoming greater. School psychologists and social workers help students change those issues, or at least how they react when those issues arise. Their input and proximity to important resources can help engage students and their families."
Winners Recognized for Exemplary Service
DEF chose two Heart Award winners, education professionals who consistently go above and beyond to support and uplift students and embody the true spirit of education. These professionals received a $400 gift card, an engraved award, and a gift basket on Sept. 21 during a virtual ceremony.
The first winner was Chris Stinnett, a school psychologist and special education coordinator from the Whiteside School District 115 in Belleville. She was described by her nominator as an advocate for the school's families, staff and faculty who informs all members of rules, laws and best practices. Stinnett also was part of a team that developed a school improvement plan to help students with special needs.
"I want to thank this committee for this award and recognizing school psychologists and social workers," Stinnett said. "I've worked with some tremendous ones across the state so I know there's a lot of deserving people out there. I appreciate just being nominated."
The second winner was Catrice Johnson, a school social worker from Bush Alternative School in the impoverished city of East St. Louis. Her nominator talked about Johnson's passion for understanding her students' lived experiences allowed her to connect with them on a deeper level. She was noted for her sponsorship of the Peace Warriors Group, a student-led initiative to combat gun violence through Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s principles of nonviolence.
"The Heart Award is a testament to Chris and Catrice's dedication of school psychologists and social workers who go the extra mile and give their absolute best effort, supporting and uplifting their students," said DEF co-founder Miguel Salinas. "We are excited to honor these distinguished educators who play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our communities."
Runners-Up Acknowledged for Significant Contributions
The two runners-up were Dr. Zanu Gordon, lead school psychologist for Chicago Public Schools, and Paris Hardamon, LCSW with the Community High School District 218 in Oak Lawn. These professionals in the field of education-related services also received an engraved award and a gift basket for their outstanding contributions.
Hardamon's nominator said that he plays a large role in seeing that students are supported from a social and emotional perspective and that he has many students who request his services.
Gordon's nomination mentioned his participation in the National Association of School Psychologists's Power Award Program which recognizes children who reside in Chicago's West Side area for progress toward goals, personal optimism, problem-solving skills, and dedication to others. In his work, he also trains practicum students and mentors new hires to ensure top-notch school psychologists.
"I love that this award initiative was formed to recognize us across Illinois for the high-quality service that we've been providing to students to ensure that they are supported and getting high-quality education," said a grateful Gordon who is originally from Jamaica. "As I receive the runner-up award, I take this as a symbol of system change, an opportunity to continue to move forward in a positive direction and be motivated to continue to be that advocate, a change agent for success."
Damo Jelani, co-founder of DEF shared his appreciation and admiration for these awardees.
"Dynamic Educators First believes that educators hold the key to the future for our students, their families, and our communities," he said. "They see beyond the obvious. They actively listen and show every child how resilient and beautiful they are as a person. Through their dedication and commitment, they nurture and encourage each child in their care."
Celebrating Honorees and Their Impact
Beyond the winners, DEF recognizes a group of honorees who have shown dedication in their roles. These honorees received official Heart Award Certificates.
- Stacy Bland, social worker supervisor, BMP Special Education Coop
- Michelle Rappaport, social worker, Special Education District of Lake County (SEDOL)
- Maggie Lakebrink, school psychologist from McLean County, Unit District #5
- Julie Hesse, school psychologist from Ridgeview District #19, Hartsburg-Emden, Chester-East Lincoln, West Lincoln Broadwell
- Courtney Morse, school psychologist from Washington Community High School and Washington District 50
- Dr. Yahaira Diaz, bilingual school psychologist from Maine West High School
- Cecilia DePersia, school social worker from Coal City School District, Coal City School District
- Kevin Wynard, school social worker from Indian Prairie School District
- Abby Campbell, school social worker from Oswego East High School
- Dina Schable, school social worker from Oswego East High School
- Catherine Robinson, school psychologist from CSD 99
- Destiny Gloms, social work intern from District 79
- Sarah Patzer, school social worker from LaGrange 102, Forest Road School
Salinas expressed his admiration for the honorees of the Heart Award, stating, "These honorees epitomize the true heart of education, demonstrating steadfast dedication in their roles as school psychologists and social workers. Their commitment to nurturing students and communities is awe-inspiring. They are the backbone of our educational system, and we are honored to celebrate their contributions."
About Dynamic Educators First
Dynamic Educators First, founded by Miguel Salinas and Damo Jelani, is a business consulting firm that trains professionals in education's related services field to revolutionize their careers as independent contractors, gaining financial freedom and unparalleled flexibility in their work. Their flagship program, DEF EDUpreneur Blueprint, includes weekly virtual classes, detailed instructions, coaching, and mentorship as participants also learn to become owners of their own educational agency. Learn more about Dynamic Educators First by clicking on this link.
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SOURCE Dynamic Educators First
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