May 2024

The Paraprofessional of the Month for May 2024 is Cody Best of Pattonville Heights Middle School! Congratulations to Cody! 

Cody has worked for SSD for five years, the last four at Pattonville Heights. While Cody rotates from classroom to classroom throughout the day, he always puts the relationships with the students first. "I want them to know that they can succeed when they try," Cody explained. He also emphasizes accountability and integrity with the students. "I remind them that rules follow them everywhere," Cody reflected. "I want them to act the same way in our classroom as they would anywhere in the building." 

Cody and his cooperating teachers have worked together to create an environment that is not only safe and welcoming for the students, but full of joy. Cody described the staff at Pattonville Heights as "always looking for ways to improve and never complaining...we know we are here for the kids. The staff are always willing to help." This collaborative environment helps both the staff and students at Pattonville Heights to overcome and persevere through challenges.  Even though, Cody admits, "there is never a dull moment," there are always people around to support you when you need it. 

Cody explained that he learned a lot during his five years as a paraprofessional. "I used to get hung up on the small struggles," he recalled, "now, I know not to get frustrated with trial and error....It takes a while to learn what each kid needs." Whatever the kids' need are, Cody and his colleagues will be there to support!

Thank you, Cody, for your hard work and consistency for our students!

The Paraprofessional of the Month for February 2024 is Cynthia Kleeschulte of Hoech Middle in Ritenour! Congratulations to Cyndy!

Cyndy has worked for SSD as a paraprofessional for the past 10 years at Hoech Middle. Cyndy went to Hoech middle herself so she has always felt right at home. She spends most of her day assisting in a room with 6th-8th grade student. "I love seeing the kids grow and succeed," Cyndy explained when asked about what she loves about her job. "I want to be a helping hand and an advocate...I'm like their school mom...or grandma," she added. 

Cyndy's colleagues described her as the person the kids come to for what they are missing in their lives or what they need at the moment. "I give affection, but I'm also stern," Cyndy explained, "I never miss work so they know I will be consistently there for them." She added that she has "always been for the underdog my entire life. I'm glad to be able to provide extra encouragement to the kids." That comfort in providing encouragement for even the small victories is something she hopes new paraprofessionals embrace. "The kids just need that encouragement," she asserted.

When the kids leave Hoech, Cyndy hopes they learn that "they are the person that they are, so just go with it!" Cyndy emphasized that the kids are each unique and she wants each to feel comfortable and confident with themselves. "They help me to do the same thing!" she concluded.

Outside of work, Cyndy loves to bake and cook, especially for her grandchildren. She also loves to find a good bargain thrift shopping. Thank you to Cyndy for your consistency and dedication to the students of Ritenour!

The Paraprofessional of the Month for December 2023 is Alice Gray of McCluer North High School! Congratulations to Alice!

Alice has worked for SSD at McCluer for 18 years. She currently assists students in the Community Based Vocational Instruction program. Her students run and manage the school's coffee shop. Each morning, the students prep the drinks, clean the counters, and manage sales to other students and staff. "I want them to know that they can do a job," Alice said, "I want them to know they can take care of themselves." The confidence and self-efficacy that Alice has helped to instill in the students is evident each morning as the students need little prompting or encouragement to complete their tasks. 

Alice said that what she likes most about her job is "watching the kids grow by 12th grade. They become different people." Alice and her team ensure that the students not only have the opportunity for growth, but develop an independence mindset. "We let our kids grow and try," she explained. "When people don't limit our kids, they thrive." 

Helping to prepare students for the work force is not only something Alice preaches, but she follows it up with her actions. "Paras do a good job when they come every day," she emphasized. Alice models that consistency and work ethic for her students. 

When not working, Alice likes to spend time with her two grandchildren and three great-grand children. Thank you to Alice for your commitment to helping our students develop the valuable skills they need for life after high school!

The Paraprofessional of the Month for October 2023 is Jessica Nance of Ross Elementary! Congratulations to Jessica!

Jessica has worked at Ross Elementary in the Parkway School District since 2021. She spends much of her day working one-on-one with a second grader, but also pushes in to assist with the kindergarten class. "I love my job," Jessica said, "I love the kids and their personalities. I love to see how far they grow during their time at Ross. They become new people each year." 

For Jessica, creating a safe space where kids feel free to be themselves is paramount. "Our kids don't need to be 'fixed'," she explained, "they need safe adults to let them be themselves." Jessica hopes that when the kids leave Ross, they have "happy memories because they were able to be who they are." 

Jessica credits the leadership team at Ross and SSD for the success of the school. "We are one big community. We all communicate and help each other." She further explained that SSD staff is encouraged to attend Parkway development opportunities and Parkway fully supports opportunities for inclusion. "Our lines of communication are always open," she added, "our leadership team is amazing, empathetic, honest, and supportive."

When asked what advise she would give to new paraprofessionals starting in the role, Jessica emphasized the importance of recognizing what each kid needs. "Keep and open-heart, be prepared to help each student, and know that you have to say goodbye," Jessica advised. 

Outside of work, Jessica enjoys drawing and embroidery, but her passion for students remains forefront. "For me," she asserted, "I always want to be an advocate for those that need one, no matter their circumstances." 

Thank you to Jessica and the team at Ross for always putting the students first and providing them a safe place to be themselves!

The Paraprofessional of the Month for May 2023 is Nancy Mozier from Jackson Park Elementary! Congratulations to Nancy!

Nancy has worked for SSD for 22 years, all of them at Jackson Park in University City. Nancy has deep roots in Jackson Park. Not only is she the most tenured person in the building, she has three children that graduated from there. "My kids joke with me," Nancy said, "that everyone else graduated, but I just keep staying."

Nancy bookends her day with the Kindergarten class, but spends the majority of her work day with 3rd through 5th grade students by pushing into their science classes or supporting them in their resource classes. What Nancy loves most about her job is the variety it offers. "I never sit," she said, "there is always something to do." She also loves watching the kids grow, change, and develop from kindergarten through 5th grade. "They change so much," she added. 

One thing that makes Jackson Park unique and special is their commitment to inclusion. Over the years, Nancy has seen great strides in supporting students with special needs to participate in general education settings. "We also have such nice people here," she noted. "Everyone is respected whether you are SSD staff or U-City staff and everyone gets along."

When asked about advice for new paraprofessionals, Nancy emphasized how important it is to not take behaviors personally. Sometimes students will take out their frustrations on the people around them, Nancy explained, "but the best skill you can have is staying calm when a kid is dysregulated."

When not supporting students in U-City, Nancy enjoys playing soccer. She is also looking forward to and prepping for her four grandsons to spend some time with her this summer. 

Thank you to Nancy for her years of service to her community and SSD!

April 2023

The Paraprofessional of the Month for April 2023 is Mary Dorsey from Neuwoehner! Congratulations to Mary!

Mary has worked for SSD for 25 years, the last four at Neuwoehner. She works mostly with students with multiple disabilities but seeks out opportunities with a variety of students throughout the building. Mary has a simple goal when she comes to work each day: make the kids' lives as wonderful as possible! "I want the kids to enjoy school," Mary said. "This is the best time of their life." 

Mary seeks to make connections with everyone in her building. This was echoed by many of her colleagues who lauded her optimism and welcoming nature. Whether she is singing The Who or reminding everyone to have a great day, Mary brings a joy and positivity to her building. When she retires at the end of the school year, several of her colleagues voiced that they will try their best to continue to bring her charm to the building. 

When asked about advice for new paraprofessionals, Mary emphasized the importance of having fun. "If you are having fun, then the kids are having fun. And if the students are having fun, then they are successful." For Mary, it all comes down to putting a smile on your face. "You just never know who you will make a connection with."

When not assisting students, Mary enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren. "They are my biggest hobby," she said. 

Thank you to Mary for her years of service to SSD and for the countless times she has brought joy to the lives of her students!

March 2023

The Paraprofessional of the Month for March 2023 is Sean O'Brien from Ritenour High School. Congratulations to Sean!

This is Sean's second year with SSD. He spends much of his day floating between rooms to help with students in crisis or who need additional support. Sean describes his role at Ritenour High as the "utility man," someone who can move throughout the school and help where needed. Sean's unique role allows him to build close connections with the students. In fact, for Sean, the relationships with the students is what it's all about. "It's the best thing about this position," Sean said. "You have to earn the trust of the students to make an effective team."

Sean, a national champion basketball player and experienced coach, sees similarities to the message he delivers to the students at Ritenour and on the basketball court: Hard work and being a good teammate are essential to success. "If you help others," Sean says, "the help will be returned to you." From his time in basketball, Sean understands what it means to be a part of an effective team and brought that attitude and experience to Ritenour. "We respect each others strengths and weaknesses," he reported. "When someone needs help, we help each other out. We do what we need to do to meet our goals." He also emphasized the intentionality of inclusion as a key reason for Ritenour's success. "Ritenour makes it a point to include our students. Our kids are included more and more in general education each day." He credits both the Ritenour principal Dr. Jana Haywood and his SSD Coordinator Nathan Dwyer with setting this important direction for the school. 

When asked to provide advise for new paraprofessionals starting their position, Sean emphasized the importance of getting the job done. "Do whatever is best for the kids and the whole team will be successful." 

When not helping students at Ritenour, Sean coaches basketball at Vianney High. He is a big sports fan and is always willing to participate in friendly (or serious) competition. He also respects and learns from the leadership styles of sports legends John Wooden, Buzz Williams, and Tony LaRussa. 

Thank you to Sean for his impressive and meaningful work with our students!

The Paraprofessional of the Month for January 2023 is Vicki Dunn of McNair Elementary! Congratulations to Vicki!

Vicki has been a para with SSD for 10 years, with the last four being at McNair. She has a love for elementary school students and a passion for seeing students succeed. She spends most of her day pushing into general education classrooms to support students. This helps provide an equitable learning environment for McNair students with educational disabilities. She spent most of the fall semester subbing for a teacher. She found the experience to be challenging and rewarding. 

Vicki says that the best thing about McNair is that "we all come together as a team to support everyone's needs." This mindset, Vicki says, "truly helps push the kids to succeed," and it's what keeps her coming back year after year. Vicki also says that it's not just the SSD staff who support the learning environment of our students with disabilities, but the Hazelwood staff as well. "Hazelwood is so supportive and strong," she said. 

Vicki encourages new paraprofessionals to build rapport with the kids. To Vicki, everything in education comes back to relationship-building. "There will be tough times (as a first-year para), but the kids' accomplishments will outweigh it all. It's all worth it."

Outside of work, Vicki spends a lot of time with her family and enjoys watching her daughter's dance competitions. "Even within the school," Vicki said, "I treat the kids like family."

The Paraprofessional of the Month for October 2022 is Serecia Tate of Granneman Elementary! Congratulations to Serecia!

This is Serecia's first year with SSD. She worked as a teacher for seven years prior to working with SSD, but is glad to be able to focus more on building relationships and helping students and less on the responsibilities and paperwork of being a teacher. "I'm just here to help people. That's what I'm all about," Serecia said. Serecia works mostly with 3rd through 5th graders, but will help out wherever is needed. In fact, earlier in the year, Serecia worked at Twillman but switched to Granneman to best meet student needs. 

At Granneman, Serecia reports that everyone is kind and helpful. "I ask a lot of questions, but everyone is willing to help," she said. Hazelwood's relationship with SSD is one reason Serecia feels comfortable asking questions. "The Hazelwood counselors help our students and their administrators stop by and make sure SSD staff is supported," she reported. 

When asked what advice she would give to new paras, Serecia suggested that they ask a lot of questions. "There is no substitute for on-the-job training. If you have questions, ask!" She also recommends that new paras use the resources on the Para Learning Website. 

As the school year continues, Serecia said she is determined to keep pushing, keep being helpful, and ensure the kids are learning every day. "Each kid is unique; nothing applies to everyone. I just want to do my part to be helpful," she concluded. 

Best of luck to Serecia and Granneman Elementary! 

The Paraprofessional of the Month for May 2022 is Denise Brodbeck of Bernard Middle in the Mehlville School District! Congratulations to Denise!

Denise has worked for SSD at Bernard Middle for 17 years with the same teacher, Lilly Leick. She works mostly in a center-based classroom with students of varying social and academic abilities. Even though she has worked in the same location with the same teacher for many years, Denise said that "there is never a dull moment. No two days are ever the same!" To Denise, "the students are always fun and have great personalities. It's all about the students." 

Denise feels like she has been successful in her role for so many years because of the supportive staff at SSD and at Mehlville. "SSD and Mehlville are very cohesive. There is no resistance. [The Mehlville students] are accepting to our students and they are integrated. There is no divide." This accepting atmosphere allows Denise to be herself. She is able to utilize her interests in crafts, cooking, and music with the students. "Everyone respects each others' strengths and allows us to succeed." 

For new paraprofessionals, Denise offers this advice: "Stick with it! Some of those first days are hard when you don't know what to expect, but be open to advice. Learn from the positives and negatives of the day." By building rapport with students, what may seem like a crisis at first, can be understood in a new perspective. Denise emphasizes three Rs to succeed as a para: Routine, Rapport, and Resiliency.  "If it's a challenge, I like it!"

Outside of work, Denise loves to build and make things, but one of her greatest loves are her three dogs, including a Vizsla which she trains and shows. Denise has trained her dog to hunt and to participate in athletic events as well as dog shows. To Denise, "there is no better feeling than a pile of puppies climbing on you!"

Thank you, Denise, for all that you do!

April

The Paraprofessional of the Month for April 2022 is Carolyn Liggins, a job coach from the Vocational Skills Program! Congratulations to Carolyn! Carolyn has worked for SSD at the St. Mary's Hospital VSP location for fifteen years. St. Mary's and SSD has had a partnership for over 35 years.. Students work as patient transporters, pharmacy techs, and more. Carolyn loves the relationships she builds with the students, her cooperating teacher, and the hospital staff. "Everyone knows Carolyn here," says Katina Harshbarger, a special education teacher. "She is the first to let new hospital staff know about our program." 

Carolyn is loved and respected around the hospital for her dedication to the students and for her friendly, conversational style. "I'm not afraid to talk to anyone," Carolyn says. "I'll even talk to someone at a stoplight!" Carolyn, who frequents her family in Mississippi, knows the value of conversation. "What I like best about this position is that I'm not confined to the classroom. I get to talk with the patients, hospital workers, and students." All of these efforts help further the students' connections to St. Mary's and fosters their job-related skills. 

Less than 50% of people with disabilities have full-time employment. Carolyn understands this and works throughout the community to increase awareness and dispel stereotypes. "I love to help students find their passions and jobs," she says. "VSP works will a full range of students. It takes the limits off students. I've learned a lot about people with disabilities and I want to educate the community about them. The community needs to understand." Even when off of work, Carolyn occasionally finds herself job-coaching when she is out shopping! 

Carolyn has two children, a son and a daughter. Her daughter lives in Dallas, where she might find herself living when she retires. "I love to travel. I love shopping and eating out." Carolyn is also fond of history, books, and muscle cars. She is an excellent spokeswoman for our students in the community. 

Thank you, Carolyn, for all that you do!

March

The Paraprofessional of the Month for March 2022 is Mary Morgan of Ladue Middle School! Congratulations to Mary! Mary has worked as a para at Ladue Middle for fifteen years. She works with grades sixth through eighth, but spends the majority of her time in eighth grade helping students with modifications and accommodations in their general education classes. Inclusion is very important to Mary; she recognizes the benefits of including all students in the general education setting as much as possible, which is why she works with the school's Partner's Club. Mary describes the Partner's Club as "an opportunity to promote awareness advocacy and inclusion." Students are able to gather together in a safe environment that is both social and service-oriented. The Partner's Club helps out around the school and does service project in the community (along with the occasional flash mob).  

Mary says that she is most proud of Ladue Middle's Community Corner. This initiative helps students in the functional skills program to grow transferable and life skills. The Community Corner collects hygiene products, winter jackets, and other necessities for students and families in need. The functional skills students are in charge of the program. They sort and fold the donations and advertise around the school. "It helps them grow in confidence and shows them that they can make a difference," says Mary. 

Mary loves that Ladue is focused on inclusion. "Our goals are the same," Mary said of SSD and Ladue's relationship. "SSD and Ladue work together seamlessly, which is why I've stayed so long. It's all about inclusion and we all believe in it." 

When not working, Mary enjoys a good book or a brisk walk with her dogs. When things settle down more, she hopes to spend more time traveling and flyfishing with her husband. 

Thank you, Mary, for all that you do!

February

February's Parprofessional of the Month is Stephanie Phipps from Meramec Elementary in the Clayton School District. Congratulations to Stephanie! Remember, you and your colleagues can nominate a para doing excellent work by filling in the Appreciation Form on this site!

Stephanie has worked at Meramec for four years. She mostly works in a hybrid recource/self-contained setting, but is willing to be versitile and help where she is needed. In January, to help mitigate staffing issues due to Covid, Stephanie worked in three different schools to make sure students had the support they each needed. Stephanie loves working one-on-one with students. She emphasizes social-emotional and self-regulation skills with her students. She understands that helping them grow in confidence and recognize their emotions is an essential step towards academic growth. Stephanie is trained in ABA and task analysis and believes ABA has helped many of her students to succeed.

"We have such a great SSD team at Meramec," Stephanie said. "We've come together to solve problems these last few months." She reported that Meramec feels like a family. Not only do the SSD staff work well as a team, but the Clayton staff fully support the students. She mentioned several Clayton teachers who make sure to accomodate for the needs of their students. In this kind of environment, teachers and students are set up for success. "The general education teachers communicate with us constantly. They let our team know what the kids need."

Outside of work, Stephanie has returned to the viola, an instrument she played years ago. She is also excited to learn the ukelele. When not making music, Stephanie enjoys board games and a good Netflix binge. 

Thank you to Stephanie for all of your hard work for our students!

December's Paraprofessional of the Month is Bernice Burel from Johnson Jennings Junior High! Congratulations to Bernice! Remember, you or your colleagues can nominate a para doing exceptional work by filling in the Appreciation Form on this site.

Bernice has worked for SSD as a para for more than 22 years, all of them at Jennings Junior High. "I wouldn't have it any other day," Bernice said. "I live here. This is my home. My own kids went through Jennings and I am outspoken for the kids at Jennings." Bernice has done it all, but currently works in 7th and 8th grade Math classes assisting students with exceptionalities. Bernice focuses on the relationships first, especially during these stressful and unpredictable times. "I want to give them a positive experience. Many of my students come back and visit me afterwards." 

Bernice loves her job. She credits the consistency in Jennings' staff with helping to create a positive environment for students and staff. "This job is not like work. I don't miss many days because I don't want to miss a day with the students." Her colleagues appreciate this dedication from Bernice. Whenever a teacher is out, Bernice is quick to substitute teach for them. "I know the curriculum," she said. "I can keep the class on target for the teacher."

Outside of work, Bernice stays busy. She has worked in a tutoring program for the elementary students for over 20 years and supports students in a program called Girls on the Run that helps build confidence for young girls as they train for a 5K race. When she finally lets herself put her feet up at the end of the day, she enjoys watching Lifetime and Hallmark movies and spending time with her husband of 30 years. 

October's Paraprofessional of the Month is Rockwood's Katy Schwarte! Congratulations to Katy! Remember, you or your colleagues can nominate a para doing exceptional work by filling in the Appreciation Form on this site. 

Our October Para of the Month is Katy Schwarte from Pattonville High School! Katy has worked for SSD for twelve years, the last ten at Pattonville High School. She works in functional skills classrooms with students of varying grade levels. Katy does it all! From reinforcing social skills, to assisting in physical education class, to aiding students with their assistive technology, Katy has been serving the students of Pattonville effectively for the last decade. 

"What I enjoy most about my job," Katy says, "is that I get to help them with skills that they will use beyond high school, skills they will use their entire lives." Katy practices patience, calmness, and quiet to help students reach their potential. "I enjoy helping our functional skills students find extra strength within themselves that they didn't know they have." 

Katy praised Pattonville's eagerness to partner effectively with their SSD staff as a key contributor to student success. "Pattonville makes us all feel like part of the same family," she reported. Regarding the special education team in her building, Katy said that they are quite special. "From greetings in the morning to supporting each other during the day, our team works as a family." 

Katy is indeed doing a phenomenal job at Pattonville High School! Congratulations to Katy on being our Para of the Month! 

September's Paraprofessional of the Month is Rockwood's Ellyn Farkas! Congratulations to Ellyn! Remember, you or your colleagues can nominate a para doing exceptional work by filling in the Appreciation Form on this site. 

Ellyn has been a paraprofessional with Special School District since 2015. She has been working in an AU room at Kellison since 2018. Ellyn has been assisting the same student since Kindergarten; she has been following him throughout his schooling career. 

Ellyn has a passion for helping students find their voices. She has a degree in Communication Disorders and is an expert on Talkers and other assistive communication technologies. She empowers her students by ensuring they have the tools and skills necessary to communicate with others. "It is their voice," Ellyn said of the Talkers. "They want to communicate and make friends and I love teaching them how to do that. It's fun." 

Ellyn loves her job as a paraprofessional. "I get to put all of my focus on the kids. I get to help them at recess, in the halls, and in the classroom." Her team in Rockwood helps to encourage the best in each other. "Our SSD staff is encouraging. We always have each other's backs and are always here to help each other." 

When Ellyn isn't at work, she is busy planning her upcoming wedding and getting ready for autumn. "My family knows how rewarding this job is for me and they are very supportive."