Pittsburgh Local Task Force Hands Out Champion Awards To Top Teachers & Students

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - The Pittsburgh Local Task Force is charged with improving and expanding the opportunities for students with disabilities in the Pittsburgh Public Schools.

Before Wednesday's school board meeting, they presented their Champion Awards to the top teachers and students.

"Arsenal is always wanting to push all of our students -- regardless of their ability, regardless of their disability -- so we are excited anytime any of our students are recognized and awarded," Arsenal Middle School Principal Patti Camper said.

Camper and Arsenal's Lucas Moran received awards.

"Thank them for helping me and doing more in getting me to where I am supposed to be," Moran said.

The Champion Awards are given to those who have demonstrated outstanding courage and self-advocacy.

A third grade class nominated 7th grader Lexie Bouchard after she spoke at their school.

"I got nominated by Miss Millie's third grade class for overcoming challenges and for just being me," Bouchard said.

Bouchard received a loud ovation when she was announced as a winner and said she can't believe she gets an award for doing something she loves.

"I like going to school there because all my teachers are very nice and I learn a lot from them, and they are very nice to me," she said.

The honors are a great reminder that it takes many people to reach out to the students.

"To help a student become all that they become, it takes teachers, paraprofessionals, social workers. it was a team effort. No one person could have accomplished what we all accomplished together," Camper said.

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