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Lehi Credit Union donates to district effort; eight special-education staff honored
Summary
Lehi Credit Union presented funds raised through Operation Hope and Caring; the district honored eight special-education staff nominated by families.
Lehi Credit Union presented a community fundraising donation to Sioux Falls School District 49-5 on April 14 as part of its Operation Hope and Caring partnership, and the district used its good-news segment to recognize eight special-education staff nominated by families.
The presentation highlighted a multi-organizational effort that includes Lehi Credit Union, Air Madness Trampoline Park and KELOLAND TV. Fran Sommerfeld, identified in the meeting as president and CEO of Lehi Credit Union, said, "On behalf of Lehi Credit Union and our over 36,000 members, we're just so grateful to be able to partner with the school district to try and level that playing field for those kids that need it." The presenter announced a total raised of $127,800 to date for the program.
The district also used the good-news segment to recognize staff nominated through the Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs process. Denise Kennedy, senior director of special education services, said the national program received 60 nominations this year, eight of which came from Sioux Falls. Kennedy called the nominees forward and named: Amanda Bork Hickey (special education teacher, John Harris Elementary), Bruce Albers Bridal (school psychologist, Roosevelt High School), Sonya Sotomayor (Elementary — transcript listing), Carol Veil (early childhood special education), Laura B. Anderson, Elise Claire and Beak (special education teacher, Axtell Park High School — transcript listing), Grant Dunbar (special education teacher, Axtell Park), Jolene Keckler (school psychologist, Whittier/John Harris), Kirsten Beeland (special education teacher, Robert Frost Elementary) and Mary Lawrence Thompson (speech-language pathologist, Washington High School and Hawthorne Elementary). Kennedy said, "This year, the department received 60 nominations," and invited the board to congratulate the nominees.
Board members and district leaders emphasized the value of community partnerships and the work of special-education staff. One board member said the business partners are "rock stars" for meeting needs such as field trips, winter gear and school supplies. The Lehi Credit Union presentation included a check-presentation moment and public thanks from the district.
The recognition and donation took place during the board's opening good-news segment and preceded the business agenda.
Looking ahead, the district said it will continue to post partnership and recognition items on the district website and thanked community partners for supporting Title I and other schools.
