Months ago, in the weekly update email from our administration, I saw something about an award to recognize inclusion. I skimmed past it but then went back to read carefully. I noticed that while most of the categories were adults (teachers, IAs, administrators, central office folks), there was a category for students.
One of this year’s kiddos immediately popped into my mind and I clicked on the nomination form. I completed it and, pretty much, promptly forgot about it. But every once in a while I would watch this kid with her classmates and be reminded. She’s welcoming of everyone, invites everyone to be a part of thing, and treats everyone with respect. We have a few students in our class with significant needs. This girl helps them, if they need it, but doesn’t baby them. It’s an impressive thing to see in a nine year old.
Long story short, she won! The conference at which the awards were ‘presented’ was virtual. So today, the head of our special education office came to our school to present the award to her in person. I invited her mom as well. It was the highlight of my week.
And if ever we needed a positive celebration, today is one of those days.
one good thing 
She is SO deserving!! She is a remarkable child! So happy for her and for you.
I can’t tell you how much this means… that a county would recognize this character trait! As a mom of a child who sometimes wasn’t included, I appreciate how much this recognition is about this wonderful student and the family and school who raised her!