The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) has honored Frostig School Principal Jenny Tucker Mottes with its Everyday Champion Award for her “heroic and outstanding achievements made during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
According to the NCLD, one in five children nationwide has a learning disability or attention issues, and the Everyday Champion Award committee sought leaders who have gone above and beyond helping children with learning and attention issues while distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frostig School has specialized in the field of learning differences since Marianne Frostig established it in 1951. With campuses in Pasadena and West Los Angeles, Frostig provides an individualized education to 120 students in grades 1-12 who have complex learning differences
“As principal of a small school, Jenny was required to provide leadership on every front of this pandemic, from curriculum development to the design and implementation of protocols for the safe reopening of our campus,” says Dean Conklin, executive director of The Frostig Center. “I have worked closely with Jenny throughout the pandemic, and I constantly marvel at her infinite optimism and positivity in the face of unprecedented challenges and stresses.”
The NCLD, based in Washington, D.C., advocates for strong federal policies, convenes experts to discuss pressing issues facing the field, and publishes research and resources to improve practices in schools. The organization named two Everyday Champions, an administrator and a teacher. An educator in Moorestown, N.J., won in the teacher category. Each received $5,000 prizes and will be honored at NCLD’s Annual Benefit, virtually, on Nov. 9.