PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Central Aroostook Association is proud to announce that two members of its Opportunity Training Center team have been recognized by the Aroostook Directors of Services for Exceptional Children for their outstanding service and commitment to students in Aroostook County.
Paula Perkins, director of OTC and OTC Next Steps, has been named Special Education Administrator of the Year while Robin A. Hunter, a licensed speech-language pathologist based in Presque Isle, has been named Special Education Professional of the Year. The awards were presented during a ceremony on May 18, at OTC Next Steps, located at 180 Houlton Road.
According to ADSEC, Hunter was recognized for designing targeted interventions based on student need and for the tremendous growth and progress students experience under her guidance. ADSEC also highlighted her leadership, collaboration with educators and families and her ability to build strong relationships while maintaining high professional standards.
Perkins was selected for her exceptional professionalism, compassion, leadership, teamwork and steadfast commitment to students, staff, and families. Letters of support submitted during the nomination process praised her ability to foster a culture grounded in collaboration, accountability and compassion.
Central Aroostook Association was founded more than 60 years ago by a group of parents determined to create educational opportunities and support services for children with intellectual development disabilities in northern Maine. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a multi-service organization providing educational, residential, community based, home supports and case management services to individuals and families throughout Aroostook County.
Perkins has dedicated more than 20 years to Central Aroostook Association and has played a key role in the organization’s continued growth, including the expansion of OTC programming through the opening of OTC Next Steps for middle and high school students at 180 Houlton Road.
“These awards reflect the incredible dedication our staff bring to their work every single day,” Martin Puckett, executive director of Central Aroostook Association, said. “Paula and Robin both embody the mission of our organization through their compassion, innovation and unwavering commitment to helping students reach their full potential.”
For more information about Central Aroostook Association and OTC programs, visit www.centralaroostookassociation.com.
