Anoka-Hennepin school psychologist honored with prestigious alumni award
Anoka-Hennepin school psychologist Valerie ‘Val’ Hanson has earned recognition for her work and service in the field of school psychology.
Earlier this spring, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) presented Hanson with the 2018 Douglas K. Smith Outstanding School Psychology Alumnus Award.
Hanson is a 2003 graduate of the program and has been serving Anoka-Hennepin as an evaluation team school psychologist since that time.
“Valerie is a tireless advocate of our field, our program, and UWRF School Psychology students,” said Melissa Hayes, director of special education for elementary schools.
“She has served as a field-based supervisor for numerous practicum students and interns and has served on the program's advocacy council for several years. Her ability to lend a caring ear yet maintain a strong voice for children and schools has been a model for us all,” said Hayes.