The Indian Prairie Educational Foundation and District 204 presented Mike Ackerman, a special education teacher and Special Olympics coach at Metea Valley High School, with the A+ Award.
You can watch the A+ Award team's surprise visit to recognize Mike for "Making a Difference" at A+ Award video.
A record 14 nominations were submitted by parents commending Ackerman for his work with students. "Mr. Ackerman goes above and beyond every single day with all special needs kids and encourages them to be everything they are capable of," parent Andrea Byrne said. "He never expects less, and he is there to make sure they become the best versions of themselves."
Parent Lisa McSharry said, "He has the right amount of enthusiasm and compassion that each student needs. Our school and students are lucky to have him." McSharry saw that combination in action when Ackerman persuaded three other teachers to join him, dressed as the children's musical group the Wiggles, to perform a song for her son. A video of the performance went viral and received more than 150,000 "likes" on Facebook.
This is Ackerman’s fifth year at Metea Valley. He coaches 5 sports with Special Olympics and helps run the popular Pack the House event, which features his Special Olympics basketball team playing against staff.
Wells Fargo Advisors are partnering with IPEF and District 204 to help recognize one staff member each month for making a difference for students. To celebrate these outstanding staff members, Wells Fargo Advisors is donating $500 for the staff member to use in his or her school.
You can nominate a staff member for next month's award at A+ Award.
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You can watch the A+ Award team's surprise visit to recognize Mike for "Making a Difference" at A+ Award video.
A record 14 nominations were submitted by parents commending Ackerman for his work with students. "Mr. Ackerman goes above and beyond every single day with all special needs kids and encourages them to be everything they are capable of," parent Andrea Byrne said. "He never expects less, and he is there to make sure they become the best versions of themselves."
Parent Lisa McSharry said, "He has the right amount of enthusiasm and compassion that each student needs. Our school and students are lucky to have him." McSharry saw that combination in action when Ackerman persuaded three other teachers to join him, dressed as the children's musical group the Wiggles, to perform a song for her son. A video of the performance went viral and received more than 150,000 "likes" on Facebook.
This is Ackerman’s fifth year at Metea Valley. He coaches 5 sports with Special Olympics and helps run the popular Pack the House event, which features his Special Olympics basketball team playing against staff.
Wells Fargo Advisors are partnering with IPEF and District 204 to help recognize one staff member each month for making a difference for students. To celebrate these outstanding staff members, Wells Fargo Advisors is donating $500 for the staff member to use in his or her school.
You can nominate a staff member for next month's award at A+ Award.