Educators and volunteers are being recognized from throughout the county by the local non-profit group Identity Clark County (ICC). The Real Heroes program honors exemplary educators as part of its Land Here, Live Here, Learn Here campaign. From Vancouver Public Schools, employees Daniel Bettis and Chad Waldman, and volunteer group Padres en Alerta were among 23 Real Heroes honored by ICC.

Daniel Bettis, principal, and Chad Waldman, school psychologist, received awards for their leadership at Fir Grove/Vista. According to colleagues, Bettis and Waldman have led the Fir Grove/Vista team in transformational work to create a safe and supportive learning environment. During ICC’s Feb. 23 recognition, Bettis and Waldman acknowledged the work of all Fir Grove employees for making a difference in the lives of their students.

On Feb. 26, the volunteer group Padres en Alerta at Fruit Valley Community Learning Center received an award for outstanding volunteerism. Members of the group are Letticia Alcantara, Yolanda Betancourt, Virginia Coria, Maria de Jesus, Letticia Flores, Aurea Garcia, Alexandrina Lopez, Brenda Pintor, Blanca Serrano and Alma Zarate. Fruit Valley staff members report that these ladies have given their heart and soul to making the community safer, friendlier and more engaged. The group does safety patrol before and after school, and helps out with projects whenever needed. They know parents and students by name and greet everyone with a smile.