JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Several high school students from Marion County who participated in this year’s 23rd Annual Special Olympics, along with Shannon Kirkpatrick of Marion County Schools, were recently recognized for their achievements by the Board of Education.
Becky Bigelow, Exceptional Education Director for the Board, introduced each student during this month’s board meeting and presented them with certificates of achievement for their involvement in last month’s event. Bigelow shared that all who attended had a wonderful experience and expressed particular gratitude to Whitwell High School for hosting the Olympics on its football field. A total of nine students were recognized for their participation and accomplishments in the Special Olympics.
In addition to the students, Shannon Kirkpatrick was honored by Sherry Prince for receiving a TNACTE (Tennessee Association of Career and Technical Education) award. Prince explained that the award is given to individuals recognized for their exceptional work ethic and contributions in the field of workforce development. Prince nominated Kirkpatrick in December for her efforts in Career and Counseling Development, specifically for implementing various initiatives across the county’s middle schools.
ACTE’s Region II Leadership Conference will take place in Fayetteville, Georgia, from September 10–12. Kirkpatrick will also attend the CareerTech VISION conference in Nashville from December 9–12, a nationally recognized event where educators and entrepreneurs gather to explore emerging innovations in workforce and career development.
