Student receives award of appreciation for her volunteerism at WJHS

Post date: Jul 03, 2018 11:32:53 AM

On June 18th, Wells Junior High School eighth grade student Sarah Shackford was recognized by her school for volunteer service to the school’s Bridges Program where she assists staff and special education students with disabilities. This award was also in recognition of her adherence to the school’s core values. Presenting a “Certificate of Appreciation” to Shackford was WJHS Principal Robert Griffin. Others present were Shackford’s parents, Pamela and Dennis Shackford.

“She’s put four years of volunteer service in helping with the Bridges program,” said Dennis Shackford, “…anything they’ve asked her, she’s done.” He indicated that his daughter is a self-starter and described her as a “compassionate girl” pointing out, for example, that she goes on field trips with Bridges students and helps those that need help adjusting to the bus ride. Pam Shackford indicated that Sarah’s volunteerism and appreciation of core values goes back to her elementary school days. Both parents believe Sarah will continue volunteering in the Bridges Program at Wells High School in the fall. Mrs. Shackford noted that Sarah has also volunteered with classmates at Avita in Wells where she serves lunch to residents and assists with some administrative tasks.

Sarah Shackford indicated that she was quite surprised at receiving this recognition. “I had no idea that this was going to happen,” she said. “I loved the opportunity and I am so blessed that everybody loves me.”

“Sarah's calm presence puts the students at ease in the Bridges room,” commented Special Education teacher Lauren Rivera. “She is always willing to help out in any way possible. She truly makes a better day for all that come into contact with her.”

“The Bridges program is for students with very significant disabilities…who are not able to access the regular curriculum,” explained Special Education Team Leader Eric Hopkins who nominated Shackford for this award. “I have wanted to recognize her outstanding service to the special education team…at our school and also to recognize the fact that she embodies the core values of our school.” Those values include Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Trustworthiness and Compassion.

“Sarah really does embody those values on a daily basis,” said Hopkins. “She is a genuine helper…” Hopkins added that he, Principal Griffin and Bridges room teacher Rivera wanted to not only congratulate her for her four years of dedicated service, but also to encourage her “to continue her good work in high school and beyond.”

Standing in front of a listing of the school’s core values are (from the left) Eric Hopkins, Dennis Shackford, Sarah Shackford, Pam Shackford, and WJHS Principal Robert Griffin.