03/10/2026
Each year at our Annual Inclusion Gala, we recognize change makers from across the state for their contributions to and support of the North Carolina Down syndrome community. Please join us in recognizing Ms. Caroline Woertman, this year's Exception Educator, nominated by the mother of a student in her classroom.
“Ms. Woertman creates a welcoming and inclusive classroom where all children belong and are celebrated for being exactly who they are. My son Jamie communicates using an AAC device, and Ms. Woertman has worked hard to ensure she and her teaching assistants are helping him to use this with fidelity. She values and encourages his “voice” and creates a safe place for Jamie to navigate his communication journey, while also keeping us parents in the loop about what Jamie is learning in class.
We invited Ms. Woertman to join Jamie’s Buddy Walk team this year. Not only did she excitedly accept our invitation, but she messaged Jamie’s entire class encouraging them to also join us. Ms. Woertman even brought her family to the Buddy Walk for the first time, including her three awesome siblings who also happen to have Down syndrome. Ms. Woertman demonstrates daily — both inside and outside the classroom — that her students mean so much to her. We are incredibly blessed to have her as Jamie’s teacher!”
Congratulations, Ms. Woertman!
