OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Megan Cook earned tenure status for her role as Director of Special Education at Silver Creek Central Schools. Cook, left, is pictured with Superintendent Dr. Katie Ralston, right.

SILVER CREEK — Megan Cook smiled as she fought back tears while the Silver Creek boardroom filled with applause at a recent meeting.

During her time at Silver Creek, Cook has attended countless meetings. What was different about this one was that her presence was requested not to fill the duties of one of her many different jobs. This time, it was to reward her for the exemplary job she has done.

With her husband, children, parents, colleagues, and therapy dog by her side, Megan (Harty) Cook was appointed to a tenured position as Silver Creek’s Director of Special Education. Her new position begins July 1.

“My journey here at Silver Creek started 20 years ago,” Cook said, as she joked that it proves that she is old. Through several different positions, Cook has strengthened her foothold in the district at each step.

Cook possesses Initial Certification as a School Building Leader and Professional Certification in Childhood Education Grades 1-6 and Students with Disabilities Grades 1-6. In addition to the title of Director of Special Education, Cook is also the district’s Committee of Special Education (CSE) Chairperson; the Committee of Preschool Special Education (CPSE) Chairperson; and the 504 Committee Chairperson and Coordinator.

“I consider myself very blessed to get to serve the community of Silver Creek as part of the Black Knight family,” Cook said.

Several of Cook’s colleagues also fought back tears as she spoke. She continued, “I am honored by the Board’s appointment tonight. Thank you very much.”

Superintendent Dr. Katie Ralston responded, “Thank you, Megan, for everything that you do here. It’s not an easy job, and you do it well.” She later hugged Cook’s mother before posing for photos to celebrate the occasion.