While paraprofessionals aren't often recognized, you should be! I remember waiting until 4th grade because I couldn't wait for the school year with you. Everyone loved you. While I didn't know you just yet, I loved your short spiky hair and your ears full of jewelry. I loved your personality.

Once fourth grade came around, I was ecstatic. I had you as my paraprofessional. That's a school year I'll never forget. You were not only there for me, but the entire fourth grade as well. From helping me put my belt on one morning to my auctions for chorus, you were there.

My entire fourth-grade class loved you and they always will. No matter what you always brightened our day and you continue to do so with every fourth-grade class that comes your way each year. You are not just a paraprofessional, you are so much more than that. You are some of these children's best friend. You seem like family to some children more than others.

While you were not only loving, you were strict too. You still told us what and what not to do, but we still loved you. You were fun, but disciplined as well. From chorus performances to fourth-grade graduation, I remember all the fun times with you, that were serious as well.

You are more than a teacher's assistant. You are like a second mother. I can never thank you enough for everything you have done for me. When I thought I couldn't get my belt through the belt buckle, you made it seem like such a small problem which put me at ease.

Thank you for putting the Pro in Paraprofessional. This was your calling in life to love children that aren't yours as if they were. To comfort those who need you. You are more appreciated than you know. Here I am 11 years later and I still remember how's loving you were to me. I will always remember you.