I love my job.

I get to work with pre-k up to first grade children one on one and in small groups helping
them achieve their goals and learn new skills, and there is never a dull moment. Some days I even end
up substituting! The school where I work is very diverse, and I am constantly learning new things myself.
Even on tough days there is always a little kid dying to give you a hug and it all feels worth it. My goal is
to keep my position, which is the reason I have returned to college after a 15-year break. BCPS has
changed the requirements for my job and by 2025 all pre-k paraeducators will need an AA. Teaching is
very hard, and while I am sure I could become a classroom teacher, my heart is with the job I have
because I feel like I get to spend more time with the kids and on their needs than I would if I also had to
deal with all the added responsibilities of a teaching position. Maybe one day I will change my mind, but
for now I am content exactly where I am.