Theresa was nominated by peers, parents and students for this award. Members of Chris Landsverk’s team said, “Theresa provides flexible services that use a variety of approaches, including supportive counseling, mentoring, therapeutic groups, and activity-oriented therapies.”

A parent commented, “Theresa has been in my daughter’s life for quite a few years now, and I think of her as my daughter’s hidden ally – she is the one working behind the scenes to ensure that transitions are made smoothly and that her wellbeing is ensured.”

A student said, “Theresa saw that I needed more programming than an all-day work program. She recommended that I attend Community Life Skills where I learned a lot and made all new friends. If it weren’t for her I would have not met a lot of good people at Hawley.”

Representatives from SEDOL and American Hotel Register gather to recognize 10 Years of Partnership in helping special needs students learn the fundamentals of a work environment. (From left) Jane Wright, SEDOL Vocational Teacher; Julie Benjamin, SEDOL Vocational Teacher; Dana Chism, SEDOL Transition Specialist Lead;  Dr. Tom Moline, SEDOL Superintendent;  Pat Fredsbo, SEDOL Transition Coach;  Larry Morse, AHR President/CEO;  Cassie Diaz-Bello, SEDOL Transition Services Supervisor; Jim Leahy, AHR Chairman; and Tom Leahy, AHR Vice Chairman..

In 2002, American Hotel Register (AHR) in Vernon Hills opened their doors to help students with special needs learn the fundamentals of a work environment. Since then, approximately 100 students have participated in the learning experience. The students, age 16 – 22, from The Special Education District of Lake County (SEDOL) transition program represent 35 school districts across Lake County.  While learning job skills, students have the opportunity to apply for employment at the facility. One student has worked at American Hotel Register for the past five years. Four others have had internships for the summer program.

The program introduces students to common entry-level jobs where they can maximize their vocational potential and acquire social skills. The training program is an extension of the classroom environment where the students receive school credit but no wages.

Since starting the program in the sign shop, students have expanded their learning opportunities to the American Café, mail room, building services, accounts payable, transportation, and the distribution center. They have also helped a variety of departments with sample kit packaging, assembling advertising packets, and assisting vendors during the hotel expo.