Tribute Wall

IN HONOR & MEMORY OF CINDY PRISCHING

From:  Kari Breese

Cindy Prisching was a dedicated and exceptional educator. She taught children with learning disabilities, behavior disorders, and autism. As a member of the student support team, her contributions were insightful, creative, and she was always ready to act even before a need is expressed. Cindy’s colleagues loved and admired her. She offered to help in any way, and she was always there to listen. Cindy was a true team player, she had high standards and expectations for herself. She always shared in the responsibilities and maintained a positive working relationship with her colleagues. They recognized her work by nominating her for the Employee Recognition Award in District 15.

Cindy gave her time and energy to ensure all student success. Her positive attitude and accepting spirit allowed students and fellow teachers the freedom to take risks and grow from each new endeavor. Cindy was an active participant in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program. She participated in wraparound programs which meant she spent long hours out of school time to attend the support plan for the students and their families. Cindy always had an excellent rapport with students. She was calm and respectful with students. She worked diligently to help the students reach their goals. Cindy was also fun loving in the classroom. She enjoyed celebrating their successes with class parties. Cindy was always willing to volunteer for after school activities, such as fundraising, dances, and sport activities. She was a co-leader for the Best Buddies Club. When that program changed schools, Cindy started she Choices Club. This club sponsored school dances and fundraisers for the community. Cindy’s energy, dedication, and enthusiasm was endless. She was happy, loyal, and a friend to all.

IN HONOR & MEMORY OF GERALD J. REYNAUD

from Bill Bogdan

Gerry Reynaud was an exceptional educator, administrator, collaborator, and humanitarian. Gerry worked in special education as a teacher and as a special education director for many years, having served as Executive Director of Special Services for the Olanthe, Kansas Schools from 1996 until his retirement in 2008. In all the professional positions held in special education, he dedicated his life to the improvement of programs serving students with exceptionalities and those with gifts and talents. Gerry Reynaud was a dedicated CEC member, a true colleague, and an involved leader. Through his vision, strength, and ability to change and affect policy, Gerry was a driving force in CEC, resulting in the Council being recognized for its commitment, leadership, and dedication to the service of students with exceptionalities and those with gifts and talents. Gerry served as President of International CEC (1998-99), and was a recipient of the 2010 Frederick J. Weintraub Outstanding CEC Leadership Award and was honored for his dedicated service to CEC and to the field of special education by the CEC Representative Assembly in February 2020. Gerry passed away in May 2019.

IN HONOR & MEMORY OF JENNIFER TONG

From:  Division of Leaders & Legacy and Friends   

Dr. Jennifer Tong, a distinguished special education professional, devoted 35 years to advancing inclusive education and left an indelible mark on the field. Her leadership within the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) was marked by her roles as president of the Canadian Council for Exceptional Children and Canadian Director-at-Large on the CEC Board. Dr. Tong made significant contributions in British Columbia, particularly through her pioneering work with the Catholic Independent Schools of the Vancouver Archdiocese. There, she implemented research-based policies, practices, and programs that continue to influence educational approaches.

As a lead auditor with the B.C. Ministry of Education, Dr. Tong played a crucial role in shaping inclusive education across the province. Her involvement in the BC CAISE and LM CAISE was instrumental in developing effective inclusive education practices, where her solution-focused discussions and visionary leadership stood out. Her foundational workshops and programs in inclusive education remain vital resources for educators. Jennifer Tong was recognized posthumously as a 2024 CEC Legacy Proclamation Awardee. Dr. Tong's compassionate approach, innovative policies, and transformative leadership have left a lasting legacy, inspiring educators and shaping the future of inclusive education in British Columbia and beyond.

IN HONOR OF JAMIE HOPKINS

From:  Division of Leaders & Legacy and Friends

Jamie Hopkins has been a dedicated member of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) since 1969, contributing at both state and national levels. Her leadership roles include Ohio CEC president, Ohio's representative to the CEC Board of Governors, and chairing two Ohio Federation CEC Conventions. Nationally, she served as CEC president in 2006, and has been active on the board of directors and numerous committees. Jamie played a key role in developing the CEC Mentoring Program, providing invaluable support and guidance to new teachers with a thoughtful, reflective mentoring style.

In the early days of IDEA, Jamie was crucial in establishing and sustaining the Cincinnati Chapter (Ohio Chapter 11), and she contributed significantly to the development of model programs for children with exceptionalities at the Ohio Educational Service Centers. As the leader of the first CEC Human Rights Task Force, she advanced CEC's advocacy for human rights. Jamie’s leadership is marked by commitment, humor, and a deep belief in the potential of special education. Jamie was recognized as a 2024 CEC Legacy Proclamation Awardee. She continues to serve CEC in various capacities embodying a legacy of dedication and excellence in the field of special education.