Butler & Friends Instructor Receives Teacher of the Year

The Down Syndrome Society of Wichita is recognizing a Butler Community College and Friends University instructor for her work with special needs students. Valerie Wall, a retired K-12 special education teacher, now teaches behavioral science at Butler and developed and works at Friendship Fields, a program associated with Friends University where students with special needs are able to experience college life. Wall is named Educator of the Year by the society.

At both colleges, Wall teaches students with special needs. She adjusts her teaching methods for her audience, including staying after each class to meet with her special needs students.

“To get an award like this makes you feel validated,” Wall said. “I love individuals with special needs. I feel lucky to be teaching in my spot.”

The award will be presented on April 7, during the organization’s annual gala: Jokers and Jazz. The mission of the Down Syndrome Society of Wichita is to enhance the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing them with support and resources and by raising public awareness about Down syndrome.