During the Central Susquehanna Association for the Education of Young Children's annual conference, held March 31 on Pennsylvania College of Technology's campus, the group named a Lycoming/Clinton Head Start teacher and Penn College alumna its "2007 Outstanding Early Educator."
The honor was awarded to Debbie Kennedy, of Williamsport, who works in Lycoming/Clinton Head Start's Becht No. 2 classroom and graduated with an associate degree in early childhood education from Penn College in 2004. She was already a full-time Head Start teacher when she enrolled as a part-time student.
Kennedy's nominator wrote: "Debbie is an extremely caring and dedicated professional who accepts each child and family where they are and works diligently to meet their needs, move them forward, and help them succeed in life."
The nominator praised her ability to work with children who exhibit challenging behavior and to develop a trusting atmosphere for them.
"Debbie never rushes a child, always giving him or her some undivided attention and respect," the nominator wrote. "She is an inspirational teacher and deserves recognition for all she does."
In addition, Kennedy provides mentorship to new staff and student teachers, presenting information on teaching strategies.
Sue Matteo, Head Start education adviser, presented the award to Kennedy during the conference's opening session. Kennedy received a framed certificate and a year's membership to the Central Susquehanna Association for the Education of Young Children.
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