The Autistic Support Classroom

March 20, 2014

Dear Nicole, Sandi and Erin,

When SPIN created the Team of the Quarter Award a few years ago, it was exactly teams like yours we were striving to recognize and show our gratitude to. We wanted to support and give credit to teams that are highly effective, extremely professional, 100% engaged and that bring out the best in one another. Some people call it “SYNERGY” when the right combination of individuals comes together and the result is beyond what could have been imagined. At SPIN we call it the Autistic Support Class in room one at Drummond Road! 

So just what is the right combination of individuals that makes up this dynamic team? Well there’s Erin - empathetic, flexible with full buy in to SPIN’s mission; Sandi – dedicated, optimistic, a consummate professional and; Nicole – welcoming, enthusiastic, personality plus, the leader.

I can only imagine how pleased and satisfied the families are who have their little ones in this amazing classroom. Although parents don’t get too many chances to see the children while they are learning, it is certain they see the positive change in their children over time. For sure we know the children are happy to be here with the three of you! All we have to do is take a few moments to be in your classroom or observe the children on the playground and it is clear the children are learning in a fun and spirited way.

It takes a lot of skill to get nine children in one circle, singing the same song and fully attentive in the planned activity – yet you accomplish this masterfully and lovingly.  Little do the children know as you expertly engage them that they are working on language skills, taking turns, increasing attention span and learning to connect with the other children and adults in the classroom – all powerfully important skills to develop.  Your deep understanding of each child, excellent organizational and communication skills and the early intervention services needed virtually guarantees each child will grow and develop.

Children’s Services Director, Karen Schaller who nominated you for this award said, “This effective team has a great working rapport with the families, children, the BEST team members and Elwyn Service Coordinators. The lessons they use throughout the day are skillfully developed based on the individual outcomes in each child’s Individual Educational Plan. The success of the day depends on this team communicating effectively.  This communication allows them to be on the same page to insure smooth transitions for the children so they can engage in meaningful activities with peers and adults. The wonderful thing about this team is that they make it look easy.”

Your leaders in Children’s Services are so very proud of you and in their nomination for Team of the Quarter are sharing who you are and your successes with our entire organization.
You are impressive in every way that counts at SPIN – you are people first professionals who demonstrate performance excellence with full productivity in all you do. You make our mission and pillars happen in classroom one!

It is with honor, pride and great respect that I represent the children of the Drummond Autistic Support classroom one, their families, SPIN management and SPIN’s Corporate Board by congratulating and recognizing Nicole, Sandi and Erin, the ASC team as SPIN’s Team of the Quarter for January to March 2014.  Best wishes for your continued success. And thank you for all you do!

Warmest Regards,

Kathleen Brown McHale
President & CEO