Schweitzer wins Thomas DiCorleto Memorial Award
Posted on 09/13/2018
Suzanne Schweitzer wins Thomas DiCorleto Memorial Award School Psychologist Suzanne Schweitzer has been named recipient of the Thomas DiCorleto Memorial Outstanding Service Award, from the Farmington Valley Special Education Directors Association. Middle School of Plainville School Psychologist, Justine Misseri, nominated Schweitzer for the prestigious award which was developed to honor the Farmington Valley Directors’ beloved colleague, Tom DiCorleto, and his lifelong commitment to the service of students with special needs. The award is presented annually to a person who embodies the passion and commitment to children that Mr. DiCorleto demonstrated throughout his lifetime. Criteria for the award include: outstanding competencies that reflect high expectations, student achievement, and positive outcomes for students; leadership characteristics demonstrated through interactions with colleagues, parents and students; outstanding contributions made in department, school, and district; and demonstration of excellence through professional development.
An excerpt from Schweitzer’s nomination articulates her extensive experience as a school psychologist over the past 21 years. “She has helped countless families, students and staff with a number of exceptional needs. Her competencies in the field are astonishing. The breadth of knowledge that she maintains never ceases to amaze those around her. Suzanne demonstrates her high levels of knowledge in the areas of student assessments, understanding disabilities, community services available, school accommodations, therapeutic techniques, and more.”
“Thomas DiCorleto was described as a visionary and an advocate for the marginalized student. I cannot think of a time in America’s history when these skills are more in need,” explained Schweitzer. “We in the school systems are on the frontlines to identify and support these at-risk children and their families. These children and families are our children and families. Education is the key and schools are positioned to be the primary driver behind improving the mental health of America’s children.”
Schweitzer remains committed to making a positive difference in the lives of students and families in Plainville Community Schools and beyond. “I am very humbled and honored to be asked to carry Thomas DiCorleto’s torch of light and to follow his path of advocacy for children with special needs,” she said.
Schweitzer, who holds a certification in School Psychology, earned a bachelor of arts degree from Eastern Connecticut State University and a master of science degree from the University of Hartford. She began her career as a school psychologist in the Avon, Connecticut school system and has served in her current position with Plainville Community Schools since 1997. She is a member of the CT Association of School Psychologists, the National Association of School Psychologists, and the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. She is also a United States veteran having served as a Combat Medic in the Connecticut Army National Guard.
“We are so very fortunate to have Mrs. Schweitzer at the Middle School of Plainville. Her knowledge, compassion, and devotion to the students and families of our community is unparalleled,” said Middle School of Plainville Principal, Matthew Guarino.
“I had the privilege of knowing Tom DiCorleto when we both served as Special Education Directors. Ms. Schweitzer certainly embodies the spirit of this award in all she does for our children and families,” noted Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Maureen
Brummett.