Hillsborough Names Occupational Therapist of 2016

Hillsborough, NJ -- On a day to day basis, Karen Siegel help students in the Hillsborough School District navigate the school year.

Honoring Siegel’s dedication and service, the Hillsborough Township Committee read a proclamation at the April 26 meeting naming her the Triangle Road School Educational Service Professional of the Year for 2016.

“That really took me by surprise. I never expected that,” Siegel told Patch of the award. “It was a very humbling experience. It’s nice to be recognized for your efforts.”

Siegel is an Occupational Therapist for the Hillsborough School District. She began her career 22 years ago while working at Sub Acute Rehab with adults. She then transitioned to Hillsborough's School District in 2001, where she has been working with children ever since.

“I look at the people's occupations and how they live life on a daily basis and how I can help someone do that, whether they have a disability or some kind of illness,” Siegel said. “I love this profession because when I got into it, it has a very holistic approach to people. You are not just looking at a disability but the whole person.”

In the school district, Siegel works a lot with children with special needs and helps them navigate through the school day and year.

She helps each student with their needs, such as building strength and endurance to be able to hold a pencil or sit at a desk all day, practice handwriting or help them understand symbols.

“Kind of what I do is help someone become as independent as they can within their special needs,” Siegel said.

Working with children, Siegel enjoys watching the students learn and grow.

“I love working with kids because they are growing and are so open to change,”Siegel said. “You can really see how your help can make a difference in their lives at school.”