Michelle Bashore has served as the central "go-to" person for all of the schools in the county, they lead the transition council and provide essential support and resources to special education classrooms and resource rooms. Her focus is on preparing students for life after graduation. She coordinates student placements, runs mock interviews, and acts as a liaison to connect students with opportunities like MCTI or Michigan Rehabilitation Services. She has been instrumental in establishing work-based learning programs across the county, helping many students gain vital work experience in local businesses, with some becoming paid employees. She also helped launch two successful student businesses: the Second Cup Cafe at CCRESA and the Send a Hug program at St. Johns High School. Above all, Michelle is a fierce advocate, constantly fighting to maintain programs against budget cuts, staff changes, and leadership shifts, driven solely by a passion to help students with disabilities find employment and build a better future. Congratulations to Michelle for earning this recognition!