GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – Alachua County Public School (ACPS) announced its School-Related Employee of the Year on Thursday.
ACPS selected Samantha Lopez, a paraprofessional at Rawlings Elementary School, who works one-on-one with a special needs student.
The district says that as the parent of a special needs student, Samantha Lopez had plenty of experience dealing with a child on the autism spectrum.
The county says Lopez was a food service worker five years ago when she was meeting with her son’s teachers and other staff members. She says one suggested that Lopez work directly with Exceptional Student Education (ESE) students.
According to ACPS, Lopez has worked exclusively with Rawlings Elementary School 5th grader Zyler Mason for more than four years, both during and outside of school hours. The district says Lopez has become so close to Zyler’s family that they refer to her as “Auntie Sam.”
“She is always willing to ask, ‘What do you need?’ or ‘How can I help?’” said 4th grade teacher Ricky Liebig. “And she does this all with her own responsibilities and obligations to manage.”
ACPS says Lopez’ support of students extends beyond the school day. “She works with a local Facebook group for families of special needs children, providing advice and support and advocating for the wider community to accept and embrace children with disabilities,” the district said in a news release.
“It’s in my soul,” she said. “I believe I was put in this community for a reason, to advocate for special needs children, to encourage people to be more welcoming. I want all kids to feel loved.”
Lopez, along with 45 others, will be recognized at a banquet on April 30.