Sometimes being a hired hand is just not enough. That is not to say that an extra set of eyes and hands on the job is not good; in fact sometimes it is absolutely necessary. However, for the paraprofessionals of Brookville Local Schools, it is much more than extra hands and eyes. They also bring a heart for our children and a desire to help some of those who have the greatest needs.

Our school district employs 21 paraprofessionals who have a wide range of responsibilities. From a handicapped bus transportation "para" (as we call them), to paras at the high school who work in the library. The paras in between cover 14 grade levels, including preschool handicapped.

Ms. Early

As one might expect, many of our paras are assigned to children who need help navigating the physical and mental demands of a school day. They are caring, dedicated and committed to their work. "The most rewarding part of my workday is seeing the kids come to school filled with excitement and smiles wondering what the day has in store for them....it just puts a smile on my face," says Nicolle Carnes, one of our paras at the elementary building.  

The schools have a number of paras who fill the gaps where instruction is needed but a certified teacher is not required. For instance, we have paras who: provide sign language to hearing impaired students, serve as technology support in computer labs, direct on-line math intervention for students, operate our high school and intermediate library, lend support to students where English is their second language and help students in the cafeteria with lunch needs.

	Mrs. Hoops

As one might expect, there are layers of duties added to each paras primary responsibility. Often they serve as playground and lunchroom monitors, clerical support, assess diagnostic reading tools and just about any other duty asked of them. With so many layers, we cannot ignore the most important one, helping children learn and grow as people. "Helping students learn a new concept is fulfilling, but what I truly enjoy the most," says para Erin Ketchen, "is that I can play a part in their character development." Mrs. Ketchen spends the majority of her time in the intermediate building.

Our most experienced paras in the district include Mrs. Cindy Hoops, who assists transporting handicapped children on our buses (24 years) and Ms. Marti Early, who works with students who have English as a second language along with helping in kindergarten (20 years). We appreciate all of our paras and the work they do. The added set of hands they offer is greatly needed. However, the heart they bring for helping children is invaluable.

We would like to introduce you to Mrs. Deana Herbert, one of our intervention teachers at BHS. The Staff Spotlight is a regular feature in the Blue Connector and is designed to assist you in getting to know our teachers and staff. Please take a moment to learn a little bit about Mrs. Herbert and what she does at BHS.

Where is your hometown?

Dayton, Ohio.

Where do you live now? 

I live in Brookville.

I have 22 years of teaching experience.

How many years have you worked at Brookville?

I have been teaching at Brookville for 14 years.

What is your position in the school district?

I am an Intervention Specialist at Brookville High School, working with students in grades 9-12.

Tell us about your family and hobbies outside of teaching?

My favorite hobby is spending time with my family. I also like to read, bake, catch up on DVR'd episodes that we miss through the week, visit Sephora and watch football.

 

What is your favorite thing about working in Brookville?

The best part about teaching Brookville is BLEEDING BLUE! These students are incredible! I love the conversations I have with them. They may be a student I only know by name, but they will say "hello", "good morning" or have a quick chat just because I am part of their school.

 

How do you spend June and July?

I love my job; however, I soak up every amount of summer that I can. Luckily I get to be with my girls every single day. I love sleeping in, making a late breakfast and chilling on the couch until we are all ready to do something. We may play outside, go to the library or pool, have picnics, etc. I know they are only going to be little for so long and I want to take full advantage of the time I have with them.