Christine Ahern receives Betty Campion Award

Walled Lake Elementary principal’s secretary, Christine Ahern, has been selected as Walled Lake Consolidated Schools’ Betty Campion Distinguished Support Service Award winner for the 2025-26 school year.

Ahern was nominated by Walled Lake Elementary principal, Julie Amann, for creating a culture of belonging within the building and welcoming everyone with a kind word and open heart.

“Whether she is comforting a sick child, providing a calm space for a dysregulated student or offering a listening ear to a worried parent, Christine handles every interaction with grace and compassion,” said Amann. “She treats every student as she would treat one of her own.”

“What truly sets Christine apart is her unwavering dedication to the well-being of everyone around her,” said Walled Lake Elementary kindergarten teacher, Amy Miller. “She takes great care of the children, offering both physical and emotional support whenever needed, and always makes them feel safe and heard.”

“Christine also plays a pivotal role in helping the staff stay organized and manage schedules, important dates and deadlines,” added Miller. “Her contributions go far beyond the role of an administrative assistant—she is a true cornerstone of our school community.”

Ahern has been the principal’s secretary at Walled Lake Elementary for the past five year. Prior to that, she served as a Special Services Paraeducator for nine years in different buildings within Walled Lake Consolidated Schools.

“Everyone who meets Christine finds an instant connection,” said Walled Lake Elementary paraeducator, Becky Kosaian. “A school environment can be high stress, frustrating and overwhelming at times, but Christine never seems to be affected by this.”

Walled Lake Elementary is a Title 1 school, which can present additional unique challenges that Ahern handles with care.

“Christine has been on the frontline for helping connect our families who need food support, household essentials and transportation with community resources and services,” said Kosaian. “She listens to the families’ needs and conveys compassion, understanding and respect through the process. She is careful to preserve their dignity through what can be uncomfortable discussions.”

“Christine is more than a support staff member,” said Amann. “She is a magic maker that makes Walled Lake Elementary the accepting, compassionate and community focused school that it is.”

Ahern will represent Walled Lake Consolidated Schools in the Oakland Schools Education Foundation’s Support Person of the Year awards contest during the spring.