February 8, 2007 at 7:26 a.m.
Unsung work done daily in schools
Unsung work done daily in schools
He was a veteran of World War II and one of what Tom Brokaw called The Greatest Generation. When he gave advice I listened and I learned.
When I was hired at my first job as a teacher he said, "don't take for granted the people who do the unsung work in schools."
At the time they were the secretaries, the school cooks, and the custodians. As a Principal I would add the paraprofessionals which include health, academic, and special education.
All of these people do their jobs and go beyond to help make our schools operate smoothly, so the teachers and administrators can do theirs.
Each day I see paraprofessionals working with students in reading and math. They encourage and guide students to help them achieve at a higher level.
The cooks, who each day prepare the breakfast and lunches, make sure all the children are provided well balanced meals. Their smiles and kind words help each child feel important.
Our custodians work hard to keep our schools in top shape. Whether it's too hot, too cold, set up tables, clean a mess, help with a locker, or just listen to a child talk about their pet, these people complete their daily tasks.
The secretaries are like school glue. They hold it all together. They greet the public, help the staff, fix the copiers, answer the phone, guide the students, and keep the office organized.
All of these people working together give our schools a family identity. They are the Moms and Dads when your children are at school. They help provide the caring atmosphere which makes the school a better place for your children.
They don't measure their success in wins or losses or huge out of line professional contracts, but instead of knowing that what they do means something to their school and its students.
Next time you see one of these unsung people please thank them. It just might make their day.
Joe Thimm
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