Life as a paraeducator

This is the last school year with my charge and second year with an outstanding teacher at Mill Pond Elementary in Yelm WA. I have been shadowing and assisting him for three wonderful years. This is the story I wrote for Nathaniel to let him know that the Lord is and will continue to look after him.


Earlier this year the students in Mrs. Schouweiler’s class were to write about a memorable occasion in their lives. It gave me cause to reflect and ponder one of my most memorable occasion in my own life.
One of the most memorable occasion occurred over two years ago when I was hired as a paraeducator at Fort Stevens Elementary.
The events leading up to my employment was not what I had expected but the delightful, wonderful outcome was better than what I had imagine.
The precious school year I had done some long term substituting at Mill Pond Intermediate School. During this time I overheard one of the assistants talking about not returning for the next school year. I had so enjoyed the substituting and volunteer work I had been involved in. I loved helping the students find success and get excited about their studies.
This had been a dream of mine since before I went to college. After years of volunteering and substituting, I was about to realize my dream and have my prayers answered.
Although it came about in a way I did not anticipate. I discussed my desires with Mary Thurgood who was the Title One teacher at Mill Pond.
Through out the Summer Mary would call and update me on when she anticipated the position would be posted. Finally in August, she called to let me know exactly when the job would be posted. I quickly composted a letter of interest and submitted it.
The Friday before Labor Day Weekend, Mary called to tell me that the job had been taken by another employee from the middle school. I think she thought I would be really disappointed and discourage. That was what I would have thought too or have anticipated I would have reacted. However I felt no disappointment or sadness.
The first day of school, I just stayed around the house. That afternoon, I received a phone call from Mr.McGinty, the Assistant Superintendent.
Mr. McGinty asked me if I would be interested in working with a special education situation? Had I ever worked at Fort Stevens Elementary? Could I start tomorrow ?
I replied yes to all of his inquiries and started the next day. This was the start of the momentous adventure and blessing that continues to this day.
Once last year, I was assisting Nathaniel in understanding setting goals in his life was a positive, fine way to find success in his life. He was anxious and had fears that setting goals at school would change him so he would no longer be Nathaniel. As I was trying to reassure him, I asked him if he thought Mrs."J" (Me) if had any goals in my life. He responded," Yeah, to have a happy, good life." It made me think and realize, that was a goal already realized. Although another goal was to assist and help Nathaniel find confidence in his scholastic accomplishments, resolve his fears, and find friends who appreciated his fine qualities.
I consider this to be a most momentous occasion and a precious blessing in my life. In addition to this working with caring, experienced, creative teachers has truly enhanced this journey.
Although my student will be moving to Texas in June. I will have the memories to hold close to my heart, and with prayer to guide me in my new adventure. I can not help but reflect on this rich blessing, the Lord had blessed me, with a spirit of gratitude and awe.