Equestrian Trails Elementary School was recognized during the School District of Palm Beach County’s Volunteer and Business Partners Awards Breakfast at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts on April 29, receiving the Five Star Award and the Golden School Award.
The Five Star Award recognizes schools that have involvement from the community in business partnerships, family involvement, volunteers, student community service and school advisory councils. The Golden School Award recognizes schools that have at least 80 percent of the school staff participating in volunteer training, a trained school volunteer coordinator, and the total number of hours of volunteer service equals twice the number of students enrolled in the school.
PTA Vice President of Programming Sarah Hansen was nominated for the Outstanding School Volunteer award. Hansen has served as a volunteer for eight years, totaling more than 600 hours. She coordinates various family nights, such as the father-daughter dance, the mother-son game night, boo bingo and a school-wide sleepover. She also volunteers to assist after school clubs such as the Positivity Club, Drama Club and the Trotter’s Club.
“As principal, I’m so fortunate and appreciative to have such an extraordinary volunteer,” Principal Michele Johnson said. “Mrs. Hansen takes initiative, goes the extra mile and every day makes a difference in the lives of students and staff. She is an amazing human being and is an irreplaceable team member.”
ABOVE: Palm Beach County School Board Chair Chuck Shaw, Equestrian Trails Business Partner Coordinator Kate Lester, Equestrian Trails Vice President of Programming Sarah Hansen, Equestrian Trails Vice President of School Support/Volunteer Coordinator Lisa Mears and Superintendent Dr. Robert Avossa.
