RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The Folsom Cordova Unified School District Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) and the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) on April 24 together hosted a momentous event: the Excellence in Special Education Awards.

This ceremony served as a heartfelt tribute to the outstanding contributions made by staff, families and students within the special education community. Held at the Cordova High School Performing Arts Center, located at 2239 Chase Drive in Rancho Cordova, the event celebrated 139 nominees, along with their students, coworkers, friends and families.

Among the distinguished guests were Anthony Uribe, representative from the office of Congressman Ami Bera, M.D., Board of Education member Christopher Clark, Folsom Cordova Education Association President Jeannette Sansenbach and California School Employees Association and its American River Chapter Number 528 President Robert Corn, as well as members of the Community Advisory Committee and Folsom Cordova Unified School District leadership. Betty Jo Wessinger, assistant superintendent of special education and director of Special Education Local Plan Area, commenced the proceedings, setting the stage for a night filled with appreciation and recognition.

The ceremony unfolded with the presentation of awards across seven categories. Nominees from each category stood proudly on stage as their contributions were lauded and their nominations read aloud by various dignitaries. Every nominee received a certificate honoring their impactful work, fostering an atmosphere of celebration and gratitude.

Here are the top nominees for each category:

Administrator: Hunt Lin, Classified Employee: Richard Forrest, General Education Student Who Supports Inclusion: Sierra Adair, General Education Teacher: Meggan McCall, Parent/Community Member: Laura Wasco-Kenrow, Related Service Provider: Lisa Hall, Special Education Teacher: Sarah Behlen.

 Amy Strawn, left, Cordova High School principal, stands with Sierra Adair, top nominee in the category “General Education Student Who Supports Inclusion.”

Throughout the night, families, students, Folsom Cordova Unified School District staff and community members expressed their appreciation for these remarkable individuals who wholeheartedly support students with disabilities. Their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts serve as a beacon of inspiration, enriching the lives of students and fostering an inclusive educational environment.

The Excellence in Special Education Awards Ceremony honored the achievements of these exceptional individuals and underscored the collective commitment of the Folsom Cordova Unified School District community to ensuring the success and well-being of every student, regardless of their abilities. As we reflect on this memorable occasion, let us continue to champion inclusivity, empathy and excellence in special education, laying the foundation for a brighter and more equitable future for all.

 The Classified Employee nominees cheer for the top nominee, Richard Forrest.