Kelli English, a paraprofessional for the 3rd grade, has been a valued member of the Joseph P. Manning community for 13 years.
“Ms. English is like an aunt to me,” says Jovia, a 3rd-grade student at the Manning. “She’s very kind, but if you tick her off, she’ll let you know. She loves her family, and she tells the kids in our class that we’re a part of that family.”
Ms. English is the Playworks MVP of the Month because of the impact she makes each day at the Manning. Ms. English practices what she preaches. She is honest with students and sets clear expectations but always makes sure every student knows how much she cares about them.
According to Mr. D’Ablemont, principal at the Manning school, “Countless children have benefited from Ms. English’s expertise and caring, and we are so glad it is being recognized!”
Ms. English is also the go-to person for everyone in the school. If students have questions or need someone to talk to, Ms. English is the first person they look for. Students know that Ms. English will do anything in her power to make their school day better, whether they’re in the classroom or out at recess.
Ms. English is out at recess every day. She plays, supervises, and helps make transitions between recess and class-time as safe and efficient as possible. Recently, Ms. English and Playworks Coach Alec taught students how to play ‘Slide,’ and it has spread through the school! According to Coach Alec, “Now anytime a student in 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade sees us, they’re begging us to play a round, so they can show how much they’ve been practicing.”
Without dedicated school staff members like Ms. English, Playworks cannot create a safe, inclusive, and fun school environment for every student. We know Ms. English will continue to be a role model for students at the Manning for the rest of the school year and beyond!
