Dr. Daisy Wood, executive director for the Office of Programs for Exceptional Children (OPEC), received the 2014 Kuhn-Barnett Award from the Virginia Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). The award is the highest honor bestowed by the council, which recognizes one nominee for his/her exemplary leadership or meritorious service on behalf of exceptional children.

Wood was presented with the honor at the Virginia CEC award luncheon held on Oct. 18.

“Daisy has worked tirelessly for over 29 years in Virginia Beach to serve students with disabilities and their families,” said Dr. Sheila Magula, deputy superintendent, who helped present the award to Wood at the luncheon. “She has provided outstanding leadership and supervision of the school division’s special education services, while always keeping the best interest of children as her top priority. We are so pleased that the Council has recognized Daisy’s extraordinary commitment, service and leadership with its most prestigious award.”

Wood began working for VBCPS in 1985 as a speech and language pathologist and has served in various administrative roles within OPEC since 1989. The School Board appointed Wood to lead OPEC in July 2010.