Michigan's AmeriCorps Site Supervisor of the Month
As coordinator of the Neighbors Plus Alternative Suspension Program (ASP), Karen DeMaagd understands the challenges that youth growing up in today's society face. ASP provides an opportunity for middle school students who have been suspended from school in the West Ottawa School district to attend a classroom-like environment for the duration of their suspension. In addition to her role of coordinating admissions, collecting schoolwork from teachers, communicating with administrators and parents, and tutoring students, Karen also supervisors two Michigan's AmeriCorps members from the Faith in Youth Partnership.
"Karen is a very compassionate person who obviously cares about the students and really wants what's best for them," commented Michigan's AmeriCorps member Lacey Lipan. "It is clear she truly enjoys her job. She has been very encouraging in my own life and I have learned a lot from her."
Before coming to the ASP program as the site supervisor and coordinator, Karen previously served as a para-professional in the public school system and several years working in the business sector. "I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life," explained Karen. "However, I immediately felt a connection with middle school at-risk students. My favorite part is working with students and hearing their stories. It is important to see that students have value no matter what opportunities they have. I just try to show them an alternative to the choices that they have been making."
The connection between Karen and the students at ASP is a mutual one. "She always has good things to say," said one of her students. "She is a really positive person. I can tell she cares because she talks to me about behaving and making choices in my life. "
The impact of Karen's influence and guidance extends beyond just the students in the program. "Karen has been an exemplary mentor and leader, "said AmeriCorps member Mark Haskin. "She continually builds students up, finding the positive qualities within them and makes sure that each student knows that she sees those qualities in them. I'm very grateful for the time I've had learning from Karen."
Printer Friendly
Text Version
Twitter
Facebook
Yahoo
Google
Digg
Newsvine
StumbleUpon
Bookmark
Email Page
