November 21, 2022, Lewes, DE –  The Cape Henlopen School District is excited to announce the Going the Extra Mile (GEM) award winners for the month of October. The winners were announced and presented with certificates at the Board of Education meeting on November 17, 2022. They were also provided with gift cards courtesy of the Cape Henlopen Educational Foundation.

Love Creek Elementary School represented the month of October and selected physical education teacher, Connie Bean, and substitute Susan Schatzman as their GEM recipients. “From the physical to the mental, emotional, and social aspects, Mrs. Bean challenges each one of her scholars to reach beyond their comfort zone,” said Equetta Jones, Principal at Love Creek Elementary School. “She gives them the tools they need to be successful and motivates them to not just do their best but to surpass their best.” Mrs. Bean also single-handedly developed, facilitated, and scheduled to ensure the safety and fluidity of the Love Creek car rider line. Her willingness to take risks, commitment to integrity, determination to stand, and sense of passion, are all characteristics of success and part of Mrs. Bean’s mantra.  A substitute, Susan Schatzman, was also selected as a GEM. “Mrs. Schatzman is awe-inspiring and has contributed so much to our school and first-grade scholars,” said Jones. “We are beyond appreciative of all the time and effort she has put into ensuring our students receive a great education. No matter the need, Mrs. Schatzman is there to fulfill it!”

Dr. Eileen Baker, Supervisor of Special Programs had the privilege of recognizing two local businesses as the Community Champions for the month of October. “We have had a partnership with Movies at Midway for over twenty years and it continues to grow each year,” said Dr. Baker. “The Movies at Midway provides a great opportunity for some students who may have difficulty with noise or too much stimulation from outside influences. It allows us to work with them on a vast array of jobs that are the foundation for higher-level tasks at other sites.” Tasks students help with at Midway include but are not limited to, vacuuming, bisseling, wiping counters, cleaning windows, and replacing trashcan liners. Over the years, students have also learned how to complete inventory tasks, stock supplies, make popcorn, and take tickets from customers. “In addition to Movies at Midway, we also want to recognize New Covenant Presbyterian Church, located off of Savannah Road in Lewes,” continued Dr. Baker. “We have partnered with them for ten years, and students help them complete clerical tasks, help with cleaning the sanctuary, and also help with seasonal tasks such as decorating.” The church also partners with Sussex Consortium to help with their soup kitchen on Thursdays. “We are so grateful to have the partnership with Movies at Midway and New Covenant Presbyterian Church, and we look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come.”