Rocky Chasteen, a Business/Marketing instructor for Butler Tech at Edgewood High School, was chosen for the Community Impact Award by the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities. The award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the advancement of the inclusion of people with disabilities in the community.
Chasteen has been a tireless advocate for people with disabilities during his teaching tenure. As the Butler Tech – Edgewood DECA chapter advisor, Chasteen ensures the chapter serves students with multiple disabilities by hosting two major events each year: “Christmas for All” and “Edgewood All Champion’s Day.” These events provide opportunities for students with disabilities to participate in activities and make friends with their peers.
Last year, Chasteen also founded a High School Best Buddies Friendship International chapter. Best Buddies is an organization that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships between people with and without disabilities. Chasteen’s chapter has inspired the Edgewood Middle School to begin a Best Buddies chapter this school year.
“It is a great honor and privilege to be chosen as a recipient of the Community Impact Award. I have had several of my students over the years that graduate and continue to serve youth with multiple disabilities as a career and calling,” shared Chasteen. “Relationships and serving others are the key to making an impacting difference in our community.”
Chasteen’s work has made a significant impact on the lives of people with disabilities in Butler County. He has helped to create a more inclusive community where everyone can participate and belong. Congratulations Rocky!
