"New" faces greet clients and visitors at Heartspring

Heartspring has “new” faces at the receptionist desks in both Pediatric Services and the Administration building. While both Aaron Beck and Michelle Chegwidden are new to these positions, neither of them is new to Heartspring.

Aaron is the customer service representative at the front desk in Pediatric Services. Aaron started working at Heartspring in May of 2008 as a paraeducator in the group homes, part of the Heartspring School. He was promoted to a home coordinator assistant position in May of 2009.

He will be missed in the group homes. “Aaron genuinely cares about helping people,” said Trisha Gorrell, his supervisor in the group home. “He constantly advocated for the students and their families. He excelled at coaching staff and took extra time to help them grow in their role. Although he will be greatly missed in G2, I know he will continue to make a difference in his new role.”

Aaron is already enjoying his new position. “I like the fast pace of Pediatric Services,” he said. Being at the front desk gives me the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of special children every day.”

Michelle accepted the position of customer service representative at the front desk in the Administration Building. Michelle started working at Heartspring in November of 2005 as a classroom paraeducator. She was promoted to a lead paraeducator position in December of 2007.

Most recently, Michelle was the lead para in a classroom when Mandi Crisp came in to the room as a first-time teacher. “Michelle was the glue in the class while the transition took place from one teacher to the other,” Mandi said. “She kept the class moving smoothly and always had a smile. I do not know what I would have done without her. I will miss her very much, we all will. But we are also very happy for her. She has been a joy to work with and a very positive force in the room.”

While Michelle is excited about her new job, she will miss working directly with the students. “The time I have spent in the school has been full of exciting and happy times. I have enjoyed watching the kids learn and grow,” she said. “Although I am sad to be leaving the young kids I am looking forward to starting a new job with the human resources department.”