Hamden High School Paraprofessional Wins Education Grant

Chapte A New Haven-PEO International

$3000 GRANT AWARDED TO HAMDEN HIGH SCHOOL PARAPROFESSIONAL

March 14, 2023…New Haven Chapter A, of PEO International, awarded a Program for Continuing Education (PCE) $3000 grant to Sharleen De Los Santos-Lazaro of Hamden. A presentation was made with a certificate by PEO Chapter A New Haven, one of more than 30 in the state of Connecticut.

Raised in Massachusetts, Ms. De Los Santos-Lazaro is the first generation daughter of Dominican immigrants. Also an avid sports enthusiast, Sharleen initially attended Merrimack College on a sports scholarship in cross country. She currently serves as volunteer track coach at Hamden High School. She has spent her adult career in various positions working with children, particularly those with learning disabilities, but lacked the required degree as a certified teacher.

Sharleen and her husband have two teenage children in the Hamden School system. It was during her daughter’s early years’ struggle with reading that Sharleen found difficulty in getting her daughter properly diagnosed with dyslexia, a condition that makes reading a challenge. That experience lead her to become a special education para- professional at the high school.

The $3000 grant enables Sharleen to pursue her degree at the University of New Hampshire, where she is currently enrolled. Upon completion of the degree, Sharleen will accomplish her dream to be a certified special education teacher. Besides finishing a demanding number of credit hours, Sharleen continues working full time at Hamden High School, coaching track and raising her family.

PEO is an international women’s philanthropic organization. Each year PEO raises millions of dollars in support of educational projects for women and girls. (www.peointernational.org.)

Sharleen will share her journey as guest speaker at the PEO Connecticut State Convention in May, 2023.

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FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: Christine Whitten, cgwpeo23@gmail.com