Community Consolidated School District 181 Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Services Dr. Kurt Schneider is being recognized for his contributions that led to the receipt of the 2012 June Downing Breakthrough in Inclusion Education School District Award by TASH, an international leader in disability advocacy. The award was given to Stoughton Area School District in Wisconsin, where Dr. Schneider served as Director of Student Services prior to coming to District 181. The award honors “the important and courageous contributions of individuals and school districts in advancing inclusive education and equitable opportunities for students pre-school through grade 12.” It is given in honor of June Downing, a long-time TASH member and author.

Dr. Schneider notes, “It's an honor to receive this recognition.  It is the result of students, parents, teachers, and community members coming together to make sure all students are truly accessing best practices.  All students benefit from an inclusive and diverse learning community, and it is our obligation to remove the barrier necessary to make that a reality for everyone.  This is the same vision that brought me to my new position, and I am thrilled to contribute, and help build upon, the great practices already in place in D181.”

Also receiving national recognition is District 181 Director of Communications Bridget McGuiggan, APR, who was named to the first class of “35 Under 35” by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). The award is given to members under 35 years of age and who have demonstrated leadership and excellence in their school public relations careers. Recipients will be highlighted in NSPRA newsletters and at the organization’s annual meeting in San Diego in July, 2013. McGuiggan has worked in school public relations for eight years and has served as a Board member for the Illinois Chapter (INSPRA) for the last six years, including a term as President of the 150-member state organization.