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2009 Circle of Courage Award
Generosity: Greg Morrow, Gerber School Behavior Intervention Specialist

Generosity means giving more than expected, building others up, and being a role model without asking for recognition. Greg Morrow not only asks for few rewards, but takes it upon himself to offer abundant praise and recognition to others.

Every day, on the whiteboard in the Gerber School lounge, Greg writes the names of staff members who have contributed to “the good of the cause” for that day. This is his own initiative and Greg takes it upon himself to recognize different staff members each day.

Greg’s role is focused on managing crises and behavioral difficulties, yet as often as possible, he spends time inside classrooms “catching students being good.” This means that students see him throughout the day rather than only interacting with him during the difficult times. His positive attention and praise to students and staff alike help to shape the climate and culture of Gerber School.

Greg clearly cares deeply about all of the staff and students at Gerber School, and makes everyone feel welcome and cared for with simple gestures like asking, “How’s your day going?” Students and staff alike know they can count on him to help whenever they need it. Even when students are struggling, he does not allow himself to be pulled into a power struggle. He does not show frustration, he remains calm and even-toned at all times.

Greg can also be relied on to “check out” staff members who are frustrated with an intervention, and then follows up with them to make sure they’re ok. Staff respect and appreciate the way that he engages with them to hear their perspectives and offer his insights with a mixture of caring and strength.

Greg is generous with his time, always willing to stay late if he feels the job isn’t done. He has been described as exemplifying Cunningham’s core values, including integrity, teamwork, a strong work ethic and desire for excellence. His supervisors know they can rely on him when they are out of the building—he is the kind of leader who naturally commands respect because he is so good at what he does.

Greg’s commitment and compassion seem endless. While Greg doesn’t write his own name on that whiteboard, his colleagues and students recognize and appreciate his abundant generosity each and every day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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