Tom Smith
Tom works for Bayada Behavioral Health but he also works for his community. He is the Professional Co-Chair at the Windward CCC for the past 6 years, serves on the Special Education Advisory Council and co-chairs the Coalition for Children with Special Needs. He has worked alongside families and community advocates on various policies including Chapter 60, the State Performance Review and Response to Intervention policies. Tom is truly a collaborative community partner working for us all.
Debbie Kobayakawa accepted the award for Matt MacDonagh, as he was not able to attend.
Matt MacDonagh
Known by his students and families as Mr. Mac, Matt is a teacher at Castle High School. He has a special kind of tough love in his teaching that has lasting impacts on his students. He works tirelessly after hours as a Special Olympics coach and transporter, picking up and dropping off athletes who need a ride. Mr. Mac works hard to create sustainable job opportunities for his students while at school and after graduation. He was nominated by parents for his dedication, caring influence and his ability to help students achieve independence.
