At the November 21st Board of Education meeting, Dr. Sara Franzen of Allegan was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for her work with a student at Hillside Learning Center. Dr. Franzen was formally acknowledged for her significant contribution to the education of the student in keeping with the Whole Child model.
The Whole Child model idealizes a system that ensures that every child is healthy, safe, engaged, challenged and supported. Dr. Franzen’s efforts to collaborate with the school exemplify this model.
"Our first interaction with Dr. Franzen took place when school staff and family were struggling to effectively collaborate and meet the significant needs of one of our Hillside Learning Center students," said Rebecca Reed, Allegan Area ESA Director of Specialized Instruction. " With permission from the family, we reached out to Dr. Franzen to consult as part of the teaming process. I was immediately impressed with Dr. Franzen’s passion for her work and the strong partnership she creates with her families."
Dr. Franzen is a pediatrician with Ascension Michigan in Allegan and provides primary care for infants, children and teens. She is an active participant in monthly Hillside team meetings, typically on her lunch break. She has provided school staff with valuable insight and expertise.
"At our most recent meeting, we were able to celebrate a number of different successes for the student," said Amy Tomlinson, Hillside Learning Center Principal. "We are making significant strides towards ensuring that this student is healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged. Without the support of Dr. Franzen, our team would be having a very different conversation."
The Allegan Area ESA Board thanks Dr. Franzen for her support, time and partnership. It has made all the difference in the life of this child.