Quaker Valley School District recently honored six school counselors with the Velma Award, one of the district’s most prestigious honors.

The Velma is symbolized by a giraffe and recognizes an individual or group for sticking one’s neck out. Established in 2001, the Velma Award is named for Velma Saire, retired Quaker Valley assistant superintendent, who used to hand out giraffes to recognize staff.

According to the district, thanks to the work of its school counselors, Quaker Valley is the first in the North Atlantic region to have each of its schools earn Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) distinction from the American School Counselor Association. The American School Counselor Association established RAMP in 2003 to promote exemplary school counseling programs.

To date, more than 400 schools across the country have received RAMP status. In addition to Quaker Valley’s four schools, three other schools in Pennsylvania have earned RAMP recognition, according to the district.

The school counseling staff includes Rose Ann Bergandy of Osborne Elementary School; Dr. Christy Clapper of Quaker Valley Middle School, who recently retired; Jessica Geis-Frysinger of Edgeworth Elementary School; Amy Keller of Quaker Valley High School; Matthew Parrish of Quaker Valley Middle School; and James Walls of Quaker Valley High School.

The award is announced during the district's annual opening day ceremony that marks the beginning of the new school year.

Last year, the Velma went to Youth Connect, who presented the award to the counselors. The counselors will share the symbolic giraffe until they present the award to next year's honoree. 

Like Sewickley Patch on Facebook  or follow us on Twitter. Don't forget to sign up for our daily email newsletter by clicking here.