Acer Ann Pitas-Pilo, a Special Education (SPED) teacher who hails from Datakan, Kapangan, Benguet, now based in Montana, USA, has garnered national recognition for her dedication and contributions to students with disabilities.
Acer Ann was conferred the Outstanding Teacher of the Year and the International Teacher of the Year Award, presented by the Division for Learning Disabilities (DLD) and the Division of International Special Education and Services (DISES), both under the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), founded in 1922, is a professional association dedicated in empowering educators working with individuals with disabilities.
The iBenguet educator received the awards during the awarding ceremony held in San Antonio, Texas, on March 14-15, 2024.
The DISES Award recognizes individuals whose service has positively impacted the lives of students with disabilities while demonstrating exceptional leadership, determination, and perseverance, which may include the integration of virtual instruction to enhance accessibility, the development of engaging programs and activities, and the implementation of innovative strategies to support students and their families.
On the other hand, the DLD’s Outstanding Educator-of-the-Year Awards give recognition to outstanding professionals serving students with learning disabilities. Recipients may include special educators, general educators, administrators, or other educators with a minimum of five years’ experience in supporting students with learning disabilities across all grade levels.
Currently working as an Itinerant Resource Teacher/Consultant in Montana, Acer Ann’s job involves traveling between schools to assist students with disabilities. Her responsibilities include assessing students’ needs, devising and executing individualized education plans (IEPs), and providing comprehensive support and resources to students and teachers alike. She also collaborates with school staff and parents to ensure the successful academic and social integration of the students, with additional responsibilities including conducting training sessions to educate school personnel on best practices for accommodating and teaching students with special needs.
Benguet Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Acer Ann on her well-deserved recognition and commended her for inspiring fellow Benguet residents and other Filipinos working abroad.
In a social media post expressing her gratitude, Acer Ann acknowledged the support of education experts “who have shaped my journey and expanded my perspective.” She emphasized the importance of participating in the said national initiative which allowed her to showcase her cultural heritage and underline its importance in the field of education.
Acer Ann holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, Major in Special Education (BEED-SPED) and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education (MAED-ECED) and a Graduate Diploma in Mathematics Education. Prior to her career in the US, she served as a teacher at the Home-Oriented Prime Education Christian Academy (H.O.P.E.) in La Trinidad, Benguet, for five years. By SAP Jr.