Every Saturday, we highlight a non-teaching staff member on our Facebook and Twitter (@vcsc_teamvigo) account, turning Saturday into #Staffurday to introduce you to some of the people who make school happen!

Every year is a great year to celebrate our staff, but this year has shined a bright light on the flexibility and compassion of our incredible staff.

Today, meet Donna Carpenter, a custodian at Ouabache Elementary School.

What is something that people don’t understand about your job?
We have more responsibilities besides just cleaning.

Why do you love VCSC/your school?
We have such a fun loving staff not only for our students but for each other. We are like family and are so passionate for the future of our Ouabache students.

Be sure to check back on Wednesday as we highlight another teacher for #RedforEd Wednesday! We’ll continue both campaigns through the end of the school year.

We’re highlighting a teacher every Wednesday as a part of the #RedForEd campaign.

Every year is a great year to celebrate our teachers, but this year has shined a bright light on the flexibility and compassion of our incredible staff.

Today we’re highlighting Mrs. Ashley Schoen, a kindergarten teacher at Ouabache Elementary School.

How has your job changed due to COVID?
COVID has changed many things this year. Being creative so that the students get everything they need, while staying safe, has been a challenge. We have had to modify many things, such as small groups, so that every child can be successful in these strange times.  I am beyond impressed with how well theses kiddos adapt. From A/B schedules, Google Meets and now in person, my class has preserved and been truly able to accept all that came their way!

What is something that people don’t understand about your job?
Something that people might not understand about teaching kindergarten is how many questions you answer a day!  Five and six year olds are very inquisitive!  People may not understand how rewarding it is either.  I’ve had people look at me like I’m crazy when I tell them I teach kindergarten but there’s nowhere else I’d rather be!

Why do you love VCSC/your school?
I love my school for so many reasons. Ouabache comes together for every student! It’s not just the teachers, but also the cafeteria, custodial and office staff looking out for the best interest of the kids and thinking of fun ways to keep them engaged. I am proud to, not only teach at Ouabache, but to have one of my own kiddos there too!

Be sure to check back on #Staffurday–Saturday, that is–as we recognize members of our non-teaching staff. We’ll continue both campaigns through the end of the school year.