Several talented Kalamazoo RESA special education instructors were honored at the Board of Education meeting on Thursday, May 16, as the recipients of the 2019 Excellence in Special Education Awards.

Sponsored by the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) of Kalamazoo County, the Excellence in Special Education Awards are designed to honor those who have gone above and beyond their role in educating and supporting students with an Individualized Education Plan.

“These awards are particularly special because they can only be submitted to the committee by parents, guardians, students or other family members,” said Mindy Miller, Kalamazoo RESA Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Programs and Services.

Congratulations to the 2019 Excellence in Special Education Awards recipients:

Kristin Klok, Special Education Teacher at WoodsEdge Learning Center – Parchment Central Elementary

Nominated by Amber Domaska and Edward Thompson

“Kristin has never ever given up on my son, nor would she ever give up on any child. She does not see children as numbers, but as her own and worth fighting for!!!” said Domaska.

“These teachers clearly put nothing ahead of their work, guidance and love for all of the students in their class. Because of the sacrifices Mrs. Klok, Mrs. Fourn and Mrs. Johnson make (leaving their families to dedicate themselves to our child and the other students in their class), my family has been able to grow, learn and assist our son in becoming more independent, smart and safe,” said Thompson.

Kelli Lawrence, Special Education Teacher at WoodsEdge Learning Center

Nominated by Amy Forester

“Kelli has gone out of her way to not only teach her students, but also advocate for them to design their education in a way that Is best for that student,” said Forrester.

Heather Smith, Special Education Teacher at WoodsEdge Learning Center

Nominated by Mandy Lutzka

“Mrs. Heather has advocated for and cheered on my son Camden while at school for almost a year. She’s pushed him, loved him and has helped him grow so much. We are forever grateful for her teaching,” said Lutzka.

Prudie TerBeek, Special Education Teacher at WoodsEdge Learning Center – Parchment Central Elementary

Nominated by Jessica Frazier

“She’s brought my nonverbal autistic son Thomas out of his shell. She’s very kind, caring, generous, knowledgeable and goes above and beyond. Thomas has become more independent since he started her class. I can see a drastic change on him,” said Frazier.