Two Habersham County School System employees were recognized for their commitment to students at a regular meeting on Monday, Nov. 11.
Jennifer Martin and Matt Loftis were honored by the school system and Peach State Federal Credit Union.
Martin, a Cornelia Elementary special education teacher, was first presented with the Extra Mile award.
“Jennifer goes above and beyond every day for her students, especially when she has to handle major behavioral issues,” Habersham County Board of Education member Darlene Hudson said during a regular meeting Monday. “Jennifer handles the behaviors thrown at her with a smile and such a positive attitude. She makes sure to tell all of her students each day how much she loves them and how much they mean to her – even after a major meltdown they may have had. Jennifer ensures that her students know they are loved every single day, while also maintaining academic goals for them.
“She plans accordingly to ensure each student has an understanding of not only grade-level expectations and learning goals – but also their own IEP goals. She differentiates between each student, regardless of having multiple grade levels and learning disabilities to handle. She pushes through any behavioral issues to ensure that each student is safe and cared for…she goes the extra mile each and every day, and she shows nothing but happiness while she does it.”
The Service Above Self award was then presented to Loftis, who exhibited exceptional diligence in ensuring student safety during a second grade trip to Brenau University, Habersham County Board of Education member Robert Barron said.
“As Mr. Loftis approached a stop sign near the university, students who appeared to be from the campus attempted to give directions…demonstrating his commitment to student safety, Mr. Loftis refused to open the bus door,” Barron said. “Instead, he had them approach his bus window, and (he) explained that – for the safety of his students – he could not open the door unless the students were clearly identifiable as university personnel or security.”
