[ad_1]
LAKELAND, Fla. — Edith Thomas has been working in Polk County Public Schools for 31 years.
She started out as the school nurse at R. Bruce Wagner Elementary and then decided to become a paraeducator. She says she wanted to help children in her community.
“I still enjoy what I do, and that just fuels me to strive and be great at what I do now,” Thomas said.
What You Need To Know
- Edith Thomas started her career as a school nurse
- Now a paraeducator who specializes in reading, she retiring after 31 years with Polk County Public Schools
- Would you like to nominate an A+ Teacher? Click here
During the school day, she helps children with reading and math.
Outside of school, she tutors students daily for free. She is retiring at the end of this school year, and her son, Renard, wanted to recognize her for her dedication and commitment to her students.
“She’ll go to the moon and back for you,” Renard Thomas said. “And especially for her students here at RBW.”
He was featured as an A+ Teacher two years ago. He was a reading coach who was driving students to and from school during a bus driver shortage. Now he’s the assistant principal at Loughman Oaks Elementary.
“Just to see how she interacted with students, that made me want to become an educator, as well,” Rendard said. “And she pushed me to get my bachelor’s degree then my master’s degree, as well.”
Edith Thomas said retiring now wasn’t the plan, but it’s what is best for her health. Thomas said she plans to volunteer at the school a few days a week.
“I’m going to miss it,” she said. “But I’m always going to come back. What I hope to leave behind is my compassion, my love.”
[ad_2]
Jorja Roman
Source link