February is Parent Recognition Month. Strengthening Families Washington, of the Department of Early Learning for Washington State, believes there is no better way to recognize a parent, grandparent, foster or adoptive parent than by acknowledging the numerous and impressive things they do to strengthen their family and those around them in their community.
Seattle’s Child is proud to sponsor the Washington Unsung Hero Awards, recognizing our everyday heroes and honoring the important role caregivers play in children’s lives. There are 28 nominees for the 28 days of February, and Seattle’s Child will highlight each and every one.
Congratulations to the Unsung Hero for February 17
Julia Engel – Seattle
Kind, collaborative and empathetic are words that come to mind when I think of Julia.
It is her 7th year attending Wedgwood Cooperative Preschool—first with her daughter and now with her son. During that time she has always taken on leadership roles, the parent jobs that are time intensive and require a lot of patience while dealing with many other, often tired, parents. Julia has served on the school board several times during her time and been the parent coordinator.
This year she volunteered to be the parent coordinator for our 3-5's class, her second time filling this role. As the parent coordinator Julia helps organize and coordinate 20 parents, helping parents understand their jobs and filling any gaps. Once a week she serves as an assistant teacher in the classroom and the kids love Julia. She always treats them as people, never talks down to them and has the most gentle approach when helping resolve conflict.
I’m nominating Julia because she makes the world a better place by supporting other parents, always believing the best in people and unconditionally accepting each person for who they are without judgment.
Nominator: Sharon Lavielle
