Home News RICHLAND TWO NAMES SUPPORT STAFF PERSON OF THE YEAR

RICHLAND TWO NAMES SUPPORT STAFF PERSON OF THE YEAR

8/14/2022

Tara McCormick is the 2022 Richland Two Support Staff Person of the Year. McCormick works as a Power-i Instructional Aide at the Richland Two Institute of Innovation (R2i2) Student Innovation Center. Power-i stands for Premier Opportunities for Work and Employment Readiness through Innovation. It is a Special Education Program that works within the existing classes at R2i2 and work environments to sharpen skills to prepare students for real-world employment.

McCormick says winning the award shows; she is making a noticeable difference in the lives of students. “Being able to help my students overcome obstacles and helping them unlock potential that is often unseen or ignored are the most rewarding parts of my job. I appreciate having supportive administrators and teachers. It has always been my goal and mission to make sure that all children are provided the proper education and guidance to be successful," McCormick said.

R2i2 Student Innovation Center Director Kevin Alberse nominated McCormick for the recognition. “Ms. McCormick, in just one year, has already helped five students earn full time employment and has several others working part time and/or interviewing. This is the primary objective of the POWER-i program, along with helping students earn employability skills. It takes a very gifted person to do what Tara does. Not only in terms of patience but also in terms of creativity and persistence. These are talents that are not easy to find and Tara has them in abundance,” said Alberse.

McCormick has been employed by Richland Two for 12 years. In addition to being an instructional aide, her service includes being a substitute teacher and school bus driver.