Judith S. Bloch, founder and President/CEO of Variety Pre-Schooler's Workshop (VPSW) in Syosset, was recently selected to represent the fifth senate district as a New York Senate's "Woman of Distinction."

The award, made in conjunction with Women's History Month in March, was announced by State Senator Carl L. Marcellino (R, Syosset) and celebrates the continuous contributions and hard work of women in the state.

"Your outstanding service and many significant contributions to your community have distinguished you among your peers which has led to your recognition as one of the New York State's recipients of this most prestigious award," said Marcellino to Bloch and the other two winners Barbara Hadel, a resident of East Norwich and Karen Joy Miller a resident of Huntington.

"These three outstanding women have spent a lifetime improving the lives of countless individuals on Long Island. Their intelligence and compassion have made our community a better place to live. I am proud to call each a Woman of Distinction," said Marcellino.

On Tuesday, May 23, the Senate will hold a cocktail reception and awards ceremony to honor the Year 2000 "Women of Distinction" at the Legislative Office Building in Albany.

"I am deeply appreciative of this honor - and of Senator Marcellino's kind words and support," said Bloch. "I am thrilled by this opportunity to tell more people state-wide about Variety Pre-Schoolers Workshop and the opportunities that exist to help young children with learning, language and behavior disabilities such as autism. VPSW has shown that early intervention and comprehensive treatment programs can make a vital difference. Not too long ago, children with these problems were institutionalized or hidden away at home. Today, we know that miracles can happen - if families, schools and communities work together."

Early in her career, Bloch saw firsthand the need for an early childhood program for young children with emotional and developmental disabilities. Determined to help, Bloch began VPSW in 1966 with six children and their parents in a church basement. VPSW is now a major center that serves children with learning, language and behavior disabilities, from birth to 14 years of age, their families and professionals such as teachers and school administrators. VPSW provides year-round special education and support service and is known for its professional training and research. The staff of more than 250 serve thousands of young children and families.

Bloch developed the "Home/School Collaborative Model," which has been designated by the New York State Education Department as a "Sharing Success Validated Program" recommended for use by other programs. Bloch developed The Five P's (Parent/Professional Preschool Performance Profile) as an assessment instrument for children ages 2 - 5 and it is used across the country.

Bloch has written articles for professional journals and produces a wide range of films and videos - one of which was shown at the White House Conference on Children. She is an advocate for children and families and Chairs the Prevention and Early Intervention Study Group of the American Orthopsychiatric Association. She is a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work, holding an M.S.W. from Columbia University and a BA from Brooklyn College.

Bloch and her husband, Dr. Milton Bloch have gained valuable experience from their education and classroom learning, but none more valuable then experiencing parenthood first hand - they have three daughters and seven grandchildren together.