'Special Educators' Shown Some Love

A baker's dozen of “special educators” in Barrington were shown some overdue appreciation Tuesday afternoon in the Barrington library.

The Barrington Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) recognized them for “going the extra mile,” said Heather Navarro, a member of the SEAC leadership team.

The first Special Educator Appreciation Event “was long overdue,” she said.

The 13 teachers, administrators and support staff selected came from more than 60 educators nominated by parents, said Navarro, which made their selection for recognition a much more difficult task than anticipated.

“We reviewed their nominations for months,” said Navarro, who leads the SEAC team along with Rose Murrin, Tuesday’s emcee, and Lisa Ottone Silva. "We didn't know how many nominees we would receive the first time."

Barrington Superintendent Michael Messore made a few remarks. He described the educators as among the most dedicated, committed, and organized educators in the profession, while they exhibit a sense of calmness, creativity and knowledge of a host of disciplines. 

“That’s a gift,” Messore said of their organization skills in particular. “Being creative is a gift as well.”

Administrative recipients were Susan Healy-Mills, special education director in Barrington, and James Callahan, the principal at Sowams School.

Support staff recipients were Maisie Morey, an occupational therapist, and Cheryl Palumbo, at Sowams School.

Teachers in the elementary schools who were recognized were Alison Robey at Primrose Hill; Doniell Remington at Sowams School; Band ryan Lefcourt and Dana Ingram at Hampden Meadows.

Middle school teachers recognized were Allison Pomeranz and Erika Koohy. High school recipients were Amy Biancuzzo and Debby Bauzyk.

A special acknowledgement went to teacher Jill Tosone at Primrose Hill School.