Having worked ten years in a K-8 school district as a paraprofessional, I encountered a close family feeling in each school that I had the pleasure to work in. When I came to District 210, I anticipated to feel welcome, but in a more detached manner due to the large population of students, faculty, and administration.  I was wrong, because on my first day at Lincoln-Way Central, I was welcomed and made to feel like part of the LWC family. Within the first year at Lincoln-Way Central, I dealt with two major health crises within my family. I received an abundance of concern and support from my colleagues in the Special Services Department for not only me, but also my family. I knew at that moment I had found an extended family. I have entered my fourth year at LWC and each day I have the pleasure of assisting and interacting with amazing students that bring a smile to my face. Every teacher I have worked with has made me feel like an integral part of the classroom dynamics. I thoroughly enjoy coming to work each day. While taking the leap and changing districts after 10 years of service was a bit daunting, I have landed in school where the personnel and students make me feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged, both in the classroom and out.  

After being a stay-at-home dad for several years, I decided to return to the workforce. Driving a bus for Lincoln-Way is a great fit for me because it still provides me flexibility to be there for my kids.  Outside of driving students to and from school, there is an opportunity to pick up extra shifts driving for trips, sporting events, and more.  

I drive about 130 kids each day, and it is an honor to be the first and last face they see in their school day.  I know all of them by name, and I say hello and goodbye to them each day. I have the chance to be a positive influence on their day, and for that, I am grateful.  

In addition to working with kids, I just love and appreciate all the people I work with. It is a welcoming environment and makes me enjoy driving even more.