Child care worker receives award Published April 13, 2007 By Airman Mindy Bloem 43rd Airlift Wing POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Johanna Clark, School Age Program assistant at Pope, was presented with the Quest for Excellence award March 22 at the National After School Association's annual conference in Phoenix for her contributions as a school age child care worker. Ms. Clark has worked at Pope for the past five years, and Iris Pierce, Ms. Clark's supervisor, is grateful to have her on the team. "To have a person with the passion Johanna has working with children is so rewarding," said Ms. Pierce. "Seldom in my career field have I worked with someone who enjoys going the extra mile to ensure children are provided with extraordinary programming." Some of these programs include an annual Fashion and Talent show for 5 to 18 year olds, the Youth United Club and Reading Mentors. Children involved in these programs can't wait to work in the Theater Room, collect items for the homeless, create a new dance routine, or visit the Child Development Center to read stories to the preschoolers, said Ms. Pierce. The children love these events and can't wait to be involved. "It's always great coming to work, you never know what great thing is going to happen next," Ms. Clark said. She affirmed this statement in May 2006 when she put together a theatrical production of "Cinderella." Under her guidance, students worked on all aspects of the performance, even purchasing parts of their costumes on a trip to a local thrift store. Parents were so impressed with the play they kept asking when the program was going to do another performance. For Ms. Clark the reward for her efforts is the interaction she receives from the children. "I love working with children because they always love you no matter what," Ms. Clark said. As for Ms. Pierce, who nominated Ms. Clark for the award, she believes the parents are very fortunate to have someone like Ms. Clark working in the program. "I would like the Pope Air Force community to know that Johanna Clark is genuine in what she does for their children's programs," said Ms. Pierce. "There are few opportunities for parents to have their children in programs that employ remarkable people like Johanna." Ms. Clark is thankful to have received the award, but is especially appreciative for its significance. "The award shows that we are not just babysitters; we are teachers, and we do a lot," said Ms. Clark.