The Bethel Park School District is delighted to announce that Mrs. Lisa Thompson, a dedicated special education paraprofessional at Independence Middle School, has been chosen to receive the prestigious 2023 Fred Rogers Institute Helper Award. This esteemed accolade is presented by the Fred Rogers Institute to individuals who embody the spirit of compassion and community service, drawing inspiration from the timeless legacy of Fred Rogers.
Thompson will be officially recognized in a ceremony at the school [2807 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park, PA 15102] at 8:30 a.m., on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. Media is welcome to attend.
The Fred Rogers Institute Helper Awards recognize the exceptional contributions made by individuals who care for children and communities, both in their everyday lives and professional roles. Established in 2023 on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Institute, these awards are a heartfelt tribute to the memory of Fred Rogers and a celebration of those who epitomize his famous words: "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping."
According to Dr. David Muench, who nominated Thompson for the award, the special education paraprofessional has consistently displayed an unwavering commitment to positively impacting the lives of her students and her community.
“Lisa's determination to understand and communicate with her students on a deeper level has been truly inspirational,” said Muench. “She tirelessly advocates for her students’ needs and celebrates each breakthrough moment of new learning.
“She always leads her students with dignity and compassion, and I can’t imagine a more deserving candidate for this award,” he said.
Beyond her role at the school, Thompson is a devoted mother of five and grandmother to two, and she generously dedicates her time to supporting youth organizations and assisting neighbors in need.
The Bethel Park School District applauds Lisa Thompson for her outstanding contributions to children's and the community's well-being. Her dedication exemplifies the spirit of Fred Rogers, and her recognition with the 2023 Fred Rogers Institute Helper Award is well-deserved.
Contact Us: