Walled Lake School District honors Cassandra Chapman and Tomoko Hirakawa with Golden Apples

In a heartwarming ceremony at the Walled Lake Consolidated School District Board of Education meeting, two dedicated educators were honored with the prestigious Golden Apple award, recognizing their exceptional contributions to early childhood education.

Cassandra Chapman, a Head Start preschool assistant and president of the Walled Lake Para Association, was the first recipient celebrated for her unwavering commitment to her students and the community. Nominated by preschool teacher Victoria Blake, Cassandra was praised for her passion and innovative approach to education. Blake highlighted how Cassandra goes above and beyond, creating engaging lessons and fostering strong relationships with families, which are crucial for supporting the holistic development of young learners. Sarah Davey, the district's director of early childhood, echoed these sentiments, noting Cassandra's dedication to ensuring every child reaches their fullest potential.

Following Cassandra's recognition, Tomoko Hirakawa, an English language development paraprofessional, was also honored for her outstanding work. Tomoko's ability to communicate effectively with families and her positive demeanor were commended. She not only supports multi-language learners but also trains new paraprofessionals in best practices, demonstrating her commitment to professional growth and collaboration. Her proactive approach to attending professional development sessions, despite it not being a requirement, showcases her dedication to enhancing her skills and supporting the educational journey of her students.

As the meeting transitioned to public commentary, the atmosphere remained charged with appreciation for the hard work and dedication of educators like Cassandra and Tomoko. Their recognition serves as a reminder of the vital role that passionate educators play in shaping the future of their students and the community at large.