WCPS Parent Mentor Finalist for Education Impact Award

When the finalists for the 2013 Parent to Parent of Georgia Education Impact Award finalists were named recently, Monroe resident and Walton County Public Schools Parent Mentor Teresa Johnson’s name was one of them.

The Impact Awards recognize individuals whose actions demonstrate, support or lead to the inclusion of individuals with disabilities so they can meaningfully participate in all aspects of life. Finalists are selected by committee and winners are chosen by public online voting. Winners will receive a trophy and a small grant to support their work in this field.

These are the 2013 Education Impact Award Finalists:

• Jake Colwell - Union County
• Diana Rossie -Cobb County
• Rhonda and Jim Fidanza - Cherokee County
• Teresa Johnson - Walton County
• Dr. Andrea Scandrett - Lamar County
• Christina Duncan -Cobb County

Some of the comments in support of Johnson’s nomination for this award included this one by a parent.

“I first met Teresa as the Parent Mentor for Walton County Schools, and I have served along side of her on many committees as well as working on various projects over the years. Teresa does a great job as Parent Mentor, and has been available to me, as the parent of a dual-exceptionality learner, on numerous occasions as a voice of information, a shoulder of support, and an ear for listening. Teresa's door is always open to everyone, and she is a consistent friendly-face at the many schools within our county. Teresa remains informed and at pulse-point of needs within the school system and the community and participates with the multiple organizations whose goals are to improve the lives and education of students and families in our area. Teresa is a "team player" and has been instrumental at working alongside the Title I Parent Involvement Coordinators with supporting all students and their parents with information and events throughout the entire system. Teresa has researched and implemented many pilot programs within the various schools that support a true multi-cultural education that is open and available to all students.”

In the nomination it was stated that Johnson truly believes in the potential of the children she serves, working to put them in situations in which they have the opportunity to grow. It also noted that when parents feel supported they are better able to support their children and when they stand together they feel able to face the difficult obstacles that must be overcome. Johnson was credited with making the biggest impact in the community by supporting parents in this way. Before becoming a parent mentor with WCPS, Johnson founded Walton
county Families of Autism/Asperger's Care, Educate and Support (F.A.C.E.S.).

A 3-minute video will be produced by the students at Walnut Grove High School’s production team, which will include testimonials from staff and parents. That will then be available and voting will take place between April 1 – 19. Statewide winners will be announced on May 1, 2013.

• Find further reading on Walton County's Teresa Johnson