APS Extended Day Aide Named “Connect with Kids Champion”

Here at SEPTA, we love it when our kiddos’  teachers, helpers and caregivers are recognized for their hard work, patience, and dedication. So we were thrilled to hear from current SEPTA Member (and former Board Member), Krista Singleton-Cambage, that her son’s Arlington Public Schools Extended Day aide had been recognized by the Arlington Partnership for Children, Youth and Families as a 2015 Connect With Kids Champion.

“I’m really pleased to share with you all the news that our son’s extended day assistant has won an Arlington ‘Connecting with Kids’ Champion award,” Ms. Singleton-Cambage reports. “Conor O’Rourke worked with both of our sons throughout last school year, and moved schools this year to keep working one-on-one with our youngest, who had to move as the [Multi-Intervention Program for Students with Autism, or] MIPA classes were shuffled around the County. His dedication and support has made all the difference in our son feeling comfortable and familiar in a new school environment. Conor has also been an incredible ambassador for him, facilitating his play and inclusion every day into a range of activities and with other students and staff.” Ms. Singleton-Cambage reports that her family nominated their son’s aide for the award because “he embodies what it means to connect with kids, and orchestrate fabulous inclusion everyday.”

Assistants like Conor O’Rourke directly support students with special needs who participate in Arlington’s Extended Day (after school) programs. They help students with autism and other special needs interact with their peers, facilitating their successful inclusion in the general Extended Day environment by helping them build their social and play skills and self-esteem. The Connect with Kids Champion awards were presented on November 5 at the APS School Board meeting. Way to go, Conor! And thanks to Krista Singleton-Cambage for sharing the news.