Hamilton School District Educational Support Special Services paraprofessional Cindy Dow has received the Circles of Life Outstanding Professional Award for providing exceptional support to children with disabilities and their families. Dow was nominated by parents and students. She was presented the award on May 14 at the Family Voices of Wisconsin Circles of Life Conference in Stevens Point.
“Cindy is full of love, patience, compassion, creativity and just exactly the type of person you would want to care for your child or young adult with special needs. She has absolutely everything it takes and we just adore her,” shares Sharri Hust, whose son Brandon is currently enrolled in Hamilton’s Beyond 18 Transition Program. Hust is one of the parents who nominated Dow for the award.
The Circles of Life Conference is a Wisconsin-based event for families of children with disabilities. The Outstanding Professional Award is one of only three honors presented during the annual conference.
“Mrs. Dow is always happy to see me,” shares Hamilton High School senior Liam Heyn, one of the students who nominated Dow. “She always listens to what I say and cares. Mrs. Dow takes me to so many fun places; museums, ice cream shops, sports events and the zoo. She talks to me and tells me about things that matter,” Heyn adds.
“Cindy truly is outstanding and we are so lucky to have her as part of our team,” adds Hamilton High School Cross-Categorical Special Education Teacher Megan Rauter.
Family Voices of Wisconsin aims to advance comprehensive healthcare and community support for youth with special healthcare needs or disabilities. The organization designs, implements and delivers family-centered support services throughout the state.