January Ignite Passion Award Winner - ECS parent volunteer, Cheri Kulik

Parent volunteer, Cheri Kulik, embodies the spirit of the Ignite Passion Award through her dedicated efforts to spark passion and enthusiasm for family engagement within Oldham County Schools. She's not just supporting from the sidelines but instead she is driving meaningful improvements that have transformed how we handle special education.

As a parent of a student in our district, Cheri came to the special education department last spring with an idea: a group to assist parents in understanding IEP meetings, navigating complex systems for support outside the district, and creating a space for families to connect. Cheri saw this need and didn't just acknowledge it; she did something about it. She created O.C. CARES alongside the district special education department, transforming family partnership from a concept into a living reality. Cheri possesses a unique ability to ignite the flames of inspiration within families, staff, and the community. Month after month, she opens her heart and her time to ensure that no parent feels isolated or overwhelmed. She mentors parents, connects them with resources, and bridges the gap between families and the district, encouraging others to pursue excellence in their advocacy for their children and embrace their own passion for making a difference.

What Cheri has built goes far beyond a support group—she has created a community of hope that has changed the support and connection to resources for families of students with disabilities in Oldham County. Her impact cannot be overstated. Cheri Kulik is the heart of O.C. CARES, and she deserves to be recognized for the extraordinary passion, dedication, and transformative influence she brings to our community every single day.