LEWISTON – Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care recently honored several employees at their yearly Wellness Day, a day for staff to promote positive and healthy lifestyles. Staff were applauded for their efforts in continuing their education, for years of service and for special awards.

Honored for 30 years of service was Patricia Bellegarde, a family service advocate at the Walton School classroom. Bellegarde has been a teacher, friend and mentor to families and children at several Head Start centers.

Sally Merrill, head teacher at the B Street Center, was honored for 20 years of service. Honored for five years of service were Norma Larocque, health coordinator, and Pauline Duchesneau, food service.

Staff were also cheered for their educational gains. Receiving bachelor degrees were Patricia Griffin, teacher assistant at the Washburn Center, and Amy Levasseur, site supervisor for the home-based program.

CDA recipients were Mary Ross, teacher assistant in Livermore Falls, Michelle Gagnon, teacher assistant at Early Head Start, and Heidi Goucher, teacher assistant at Early Head Start. CDA candidates were Tracy Polisky, family service advocate at the Tri-Town Center in Mechanic Falls, Jennifer Gonyea, teacher assistant at B Street, and Sharon Bissonnette, teacher assistant at B Street.

The Fridelle Peterson Award is given in memory of Delle Peterson, a 16-year employee of Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care who was devoted to the children and families. This year’s recipient, Todd Marquis Boutin, is a teacher assistant at Early Head Start. He is the primary care giver to children between the ages of 6 weeks and 3 years. The award was presented by Don Peterson and his daughter, Megan.

Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care has provided child development services to pregnant women, families and children, newborn to age 5, for more than 40 years.

Applications for Head Start programs are accepted at any time. Most Head Start programs are free to eligible children. Call 795-4040 for more information. or visit www.androkids.com.