Delle Peterson Award winner Debbie Johnson, center, is pictured with Don Peterson and daughter, Meghan Peterson.

Head Start teacher gets Peterson award

LEWISTON – Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care recently honored several employees at the yearly Wellness Fair, a day for staff to promote positive and healthy lifestyles. Staff members were applauded for their years of service, and teacher Debbie Johnson was awarded the Fridelle Peterson Award.

The Peterson Award is given in memory of Delle Peterson, a 16-year employee of Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care. Peterson was devoted to the children and families of Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care, and her compassionate and professional delivery of direct services exemplifies the honor of the award.

This year’s recipient, Debbie Johnson, is a teacher at Early Head Start. She is the primary care giver to children between the ages of 6 weeks and 3 years. The award was presented by Don Peterson and daughter, Meghan.

Several staff members were also honored for years of service to Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care. June DeCoster, financial coordinator, was honored for 15 years of service. Head Teacher Diana Smith has been employed at Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care for 10 years. Honored for five years of service were Becky Lowe, teacher assistant; Sue Hatherley, teacher; Mary Thibeault, home visitor; and Mike Lavigne, janitor.

Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care has provided child development services to pregnant women, families and children, newborn to age 5, for more than 41 years. Centers are located in Lewiston, Auburn, Lisbon Falls, Livermore Falls, Mechanic Falls and Turner.

Applications for all Head Start programs are accepted at any time. Most Head Start programs are free to eligible children. Full-day childcare services are available on a sliding fee scale for parents who are working, continuing their education, or participating in job training. Call 795-4040 for more information or visit www.androkids.com. Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care is a United Way funded and Lewiston and Auburn Community Development Block Grant supported agency.