SEPTA Presents Distinguished Service Awards

Three outstanding educators who have dedicated their professional careers to Huntington UFSD children are this year’s Special Education PTA Distinguished Service Award recipients.

Nicole Smith, Christopher Dugan and Richard Signorelli were all honored for their exceptional commitment to the students they work with and the district at-large. The group would was recognized at the PTA Council’s festive end of year luncheon.

SEPTA co-Presidents Sara Baliber and Dr. Kristin Rogan announced this year’s award recipients.

“We have three recipients who were all nominated by their colleagues,” Mrs. Baliber said. “Through their dedication, creativity and advocacy they have enriched the lives of their students and have assisted them in achieving their goals.”

Huntington SEPTA established the Distinguished Service Award to honor those who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to help students with special needs reach their full potential.

“Nicole Smith, a speech therapist at Woodhull School, who has been a part of Huntington UFSD for nearly 30 years was highlighted for her exemplary work ethic, organization and her ability to help her students feel included and valued as community members.”

SEPTA actively solicits nominations for the awards and after they are received, a multi-member committee reviews essays and other materials that document how the individuals facilitate inclusion, interact with students, make a difference in the youngsters’ lives and share their special qualities with parents and other staff members.

“Christopher Dugan, who is currently a fourth grade teacher at Jack Abrams School is retiring this year after 32 years in the district,” Mrs. Baliber said. “His colleagues highlighted his ability to establish solid trusting connections with each individual student, always demonstrating empathy, patience and understanding.”

The crowd included district principals, directors and chairs as well as Superintendent Beth McCoy, Deputy Superintendent Christopher Hender and Assistant Superintendents Brenden Cusack and Dr. Rubie Harris.

“Richie Signorelli, a teacher’s aide at J. Taylor Finley Middle School, has been a valuable member of Huntington UFSD for over 20 years, serving in numerous roles, including classroom aide, building aide, 1:1 aide, 3:1 aide and, of course, resident DJ,” Mrs. Baliber said. “His nomination letter citing his unwavering dedication, positive influence and ability to make every student feel both seen and heard.”

The award recipients were all presented with tokens of SEPTA’s appreciation.