Shining Star Season: Shining Light on the Staff

Show Notes: DCSEAC Shining Stars Award - Celebrating Those Who Make a Difference

Episode Overview

Join hosts Meredith and Courtney as they discuss the DCSEAC Shining Stars Award program, a special initiative to recognize and celebrate the educators, staff, and community members who make a profound impact on children with special needs in Douglas County.

Featured Guest: Courtney - Shining Star Coordinator for DCSEAC

Key Topics Discussed: What is the Shining Stars Award?

• An annual recognition program celebrating staff members who impact children with IEPs and 504 plans
• Open to ALL school staff: teachers, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, crossing guards, custodians, therapists, social workers, principals, and even therapy dogs and their handlers
• Not limited to just teachers - anyone in Douglas County schools who makes a difference

Why It Matters

• Recognizes the often-unseen daily efforts of school staff
• Acknowledges the impact on both students AND families
• Helps combat feelings of isolation in the special education community
• Shows appreciation for those who "show up on the good days and the bad days"

Important Dates

• Nominations Open: February 15th
• Nominations Close: February 28th (2-week window)
• Drawing Date: March 11th (with district representatives)
• Basket Delivery: March 24th

How to Nominate

• Visit the DCSEAC website and click "Nominate"
• Simple step-by-step process requiring:
  • Nominee's name
  • School affiliation
  • Their role/position
  • 1-2 sentences (or more!) about their impact
• Every nominee receives their nomination in writing, beautifully presented for them to keep

The Recognition

• 10 Grand Prize Baskets: Randomly selected from all nominees
• Baskets curated with love, filled with donations from local businesses
• Gift cards to Target, Walmart, Office Depot, Staples, Michael's, and more
• Every Single Nominee receives their nomination certificate, regardless of basket selection

Who Can Be Nominated?

• Public schools throughout Douglas County
• Charter schools (American Academy, Castle Pines, Lehman, etc.)
• Elementary, middle, AND high school staff
• Anyone who works with special education students

How to Support

• Donate: Scan QR code or visit the cheddar up link on the DCSEAC website
• Spread the Word: Share with other parents and community members
• Business Donations: Contact Courtney through the website or social media
• Gift cards and monetary donations go a long way for classroom supplies

Connect with DCSEAC

• Website: [email protected]
• Facebook: DCSEAC
• Instagram: DCESAC_CO
• Email: Available on website

Call to Action

If there's a teacher, aide, bus driver, or any staff member who has made your IEP or 504 journey a little brighter, now is the time to let them shine! Nominations open February 15th for just two weeks.

Note: DCSEAC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families navigating special education in Douglas County.