Highlighting Our Paraprofessionals

Shelley Lovick

Shelley finds joy in the ever-changing nature of her work. “I like my job because it’s different each day. The students never cease to amaze me! They are listening, and they are learning,” she shared. Shelley works with students in the Transition Plus program, serving young adults aged 18-22, and her love for this age group is palpable.

After starting her work with students with disabilities later in life, Shelley’s journey has taken her through every age group, from infants to the elderly. Now, she treasures the vibrant, unpredictable nature of her daily work. “There really isn’t a typical day. It’s a wonderful variety each day,” she said.

What makes Shelley’s experience especially meaningful is the team she works with. “I love, love the Transition Plus team. I learn from them on a daily basis,” she said, admiring the wealth of knowledge and care her colleagues bring to the students they serve.

Mariia Trotsiuk

Mariia supports students and teachers by working closely with those who need extra help. For her, the rewards are endless. “Every single day I positively impact young lives by helping children learn and grow,” she said.

Mariia values the diversity of Richfield and appreciates the opportunity to give back to her local community. “The staff here are nice and friendly, and I feel like I’m contributing to something bigger by working with students from diverse backgrounds,” she shared. “It’s really rewarding when students are independent but still lean on you for support.”

Rachel Gilbertson

For Rachel, the bonds she builds with students are the most meaningful part of her work. “I work with small groups of students in math, and the things they say are so funny. The connections we form and how they feel comfortable sharing anything that’s on their mind makes it all worthwhile,” she said.

Rachel also enjoys helping her fellow paraprofessionals and appreciates the diversity in Richfield. “The workplace environment here is better than other districts I’ve been in,” she added.

Carmen Christian

Balancing roles as both a preschool paraprofessional during the day and a high school coach in the evenings, Carmen sees student growth at all stages. “From toddlers to high schoolers, all of the growth moments—big and small—make every day worthwhile,” she said.

Carmen feels supported by her colleagues, sharing, “My coaching staff at RHS is absolutely the best, most supportive group of coaches around, and I feel the same about the Central staff. I truly enjoy going to work every day!”

Necole Vassar

Necole finds helping students improve their grades to be the most rewarding part of her job. “The staff here are amazing,” she said, keeping her response short but impactful.

Cathy Knoblauch

As a special education para, Cathy says the relationships she builds with students are at the heart of her work. “It is nice to get to know different scholars every few years. I like the variety of activities we do daily,” she said. Having served as a paraprofessional for Richfield Public Schools for 20 years, Cathy finds joy and purpose in helping students transition from high school to young adulthood.

Cathy values the collaborative environment, highlighting the leadership of her supervisor. “She makes us feel valued, and that is really special,” Cathy noted. She also recognizes her fellow paras and teachers for their commitment to student success. “We learn from each other and have fun too,” she said.

Cathy’s role involves a diverse range of responsibilities, from helping students navigate social skills and work skills in the PAES lab to supporting them through personal challenges. “I may help a scholar navigate a traumatic experience, shift to helping a student in the bathroom, and then help with classwork,” she explained. Despite the challenges, she finds immense pride in modeling positive behavior and making a difference in her students’ lives.

Brenda Biever

Brenda thrives on connecting with students and her coworkers. “I like getting to know the students. My coworkers are also awesome,” she shared. For Brenda, interacting with students and staff is deeply rewarding.

Over her 14 years with Richfield Public Schools, Brenda has witnessed students grow into adults and appreciates meeting them again in the community. “The community is very wonderful,” she said. For Brenda, supporting students and continually learning are the most fulfilling aspects of her role. “Meeting students that become adults in the community is very cool. Supporting the students and learning new things are very rewarding,” she added.