Below are special education personnel that have been named “AISD Remarkable Stars” by their peers as well as by parents of students.
Mr. Jimmy Riner
APE Coach/Teacher at Lamar High School
Coach Jimmy is amazing! The kids look forward to APE every week. He makes them laugh and smile. Coach Jimmy makes learning and reaching their IEP goals FUN! What an awesome influence he has on these students.
Submitted by: Kim Griffiths
____________________________________________________________
Ms. Yvonne Smith-Dodgen
Physical Therapy at Special Education
Yvonne is such an advocate for our students. She shows caring and compassion for each child. As a partner with the teachers, Yvonne helps guide and support, to help each student reach his or her fullest potential.
Submitted by: Kim Griffiths
_____________________________________________________________
Yvonne Smith
Lead PT at Annex V
Yvonne was recently recognized by her national association, the American Physical Therapy Association, at the Combined Sections Meeting for attaining recertification as a pediatric specialist in physical therapy. This honor is held by only 1,000 physical therapists nationwide.
Submitted by: Kelly Hunt
_____________________________________________________________
Special Education Staff at Boles Junior High
Mrs. Villanueva builds an incredible rapport with students. Mrs. Rahimzadeh works diligently to see that students meet goals. Mrs. Soroka is creative and thoughtful in her approach. Ms. Kopplin is dependable, conscientious and a favorite among students. Ms. Hairell tutors tirelessly, reaching out to all students. Ms. Hanks goes above and beyond, providing differentiation and support to students in math. Ms. Ortega genuinely cares about each student. I am lucky to work with such a great staff.
Submitted by: Lisa Hurley
____________________________________________________________
Mrs. Betsy Seiberling
Diagnostician at Moore Elementary & Boles Junior High
Betsy Seiberling is an incredible diagnostician. She is professional and always well prepared. She knows our kids and takes pride in taking good care of them. She is kind and compassionate with our parents. It's comforting for them to know that she watches over them when they move on to Boles! She is well respected and appreciated. We love her because she is nice AND fun!!!
Submitted by: Vivian Johnson
____________________________________________________________
Sherri Bielefeld
Occupational Therapist at Sherrod Elementary
Sherri Bielefeld is the occupational therapist at Sherrod Elementary this year. Sherri serves general education as well as more than 35 skills students at Sherrod. As skills team leader, I have been sent more positive, encouraging observations concerning Sherri's work with our children than there is room here to post. For so many reasons, Sherri Bielefeld is a shining star in the Arlington ISD. We are truly blessed to have her serve the children at Sherrod Elementary.
Submitted by: Nancy Kennedy
____________________________________________________________
Pearcy ABLE Teaching Assistants
The Pearcy Elementary ABLE Teaching Assistants give of themselves tirelessly to ensure that our students are successful in all environments. They adapt to changes without missing a beat, and they do so with a smile. They provide help and understanding to all students and staff. They are truly appreciated by all they come in contact with. Thank you for EVERYTHING you do for all of us every day!! We couldn't do it without you!
Submitted by: Krystal Kelley
_____________________________________________________________
Mrs. Lisa Gleason
Resource Teacher at Corey Elementary
Mrs. Gleason is extremely dedicated to the students at Corey Elementary. She believes in all students’ ability to achieve. She co-teaches in the classroom, tutors before and after school, and encourages and supports her students, teachers and staff. Thank you, Lisa, for your dedication to all of us.
Submitted by: Candy Dowd