This week's Staff Spotlight goes to paraprofessional, Kelley Atkinson!
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in education? I have always had a desire to help people and wanted to work somewhere that allowed me to have more time with my family. I began working in the school system as a substitute several years ago and I just fell in love with the kids and the people that make up each of our schools.
2. What’s your favorite part of working with students? My favorite part of working with students is probably just the every day conversations I get to have with them. I love building relationships with them and getting to know them and all the things they love.
3. Do you have any professional goals you’re working on this year? I have actually been inspired to go back to school to pursue my degree in special education, so I am currently working towards that.
4. What’s one thing you love most about our school community? I love the welcoming, family atmosphere. It feels like such a close knit community. They make you feel like family regardless if you have worked here 1 year or 10 years. We really do have some of the best people to work with.
5. Is there a particular moment in the school year you look forward to each year? I love the 100th day of school parade. The kids are so cute dressed up!
6. What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you? I collect vinyl records.
7. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? I have always wanted to go to Bora Bora. I love the tropical destinations and the huts on the water seem wonderful!
8. What’s a food you can never say no to? Mexican food, specifically fajitas, but all of it is delicious.