On January 20, 2023, at Villa of Hope School in Greece, the Harlem Globetrotters honored Joann Grant, as recipient of the Harlem Globetrotters “Great Assist” Award.
Launched in December 2022, the award program is designed to, “Celebrate youth sports and organizations in local communities that are pursuing the possibilities of greatness by exemplifying LEADERSHIP, SPORTSMANSHIP and COMMITMENT. It is just one of the community programs that highlight the Globetrotters, “Commitment to spread joy as they travel the world to help grow, inspire and learn from communities and partners that are making a difference.”
Joann Grant, has been a substitute teacher at Villa of Hope School for 23 years. She was nominated for the honor by fellow teachers on the staff.
Kimberle Ward, Director of Education at Villa of Hope School said, “When Joann’s name came in as a nominee for the award I knew she was perfect. She is a substitute teacher that comes in everyday and teaches different classes, different students. She always rolls with it and never complains, always with a smile on her face. She has a great relationship with the kids and with staff members. Whenever anyone needs help with anything, she is always willing to pitch in.”
Joann was “totally surprised” by the honor, “It was disbelief, like that really didn’t just happen. It means so, so much to me, and makes me proud to be recognized this way, for something I love to do.”
Joann says she enjoys the small close-knit environment at Villa of Hope School. “ It’s like a family. Working here is something I enjoy so much. I never expected to do this kind of work, then I found out this job was made for me.” In the past couple of years Joann has taken on a leadership role in the school’s individualized support program for students, focusing on identifying individual’s specific needs and exploring ways for figuring out solutions.
Villa of Hope School provides a year-round program that incorporates academic, vocational, and remedial services for youth in our Residential Treatment Center and Residential Treatment Facility, and is a specialized day school offering education and therapeutic services to youth ages 12 to 21 who live at home.
Our school can serve up to 112 students in grades 7 through 12. Students receive specialized daily instruction to ensure that all students achieve the knowledge and skills necessary to live independently and lead self-directed lives. For more information on Villa of Hope School visit www.villaofhopeschool.org
Photos by Karen Fien
