As a junior high student here, Mrs. Amalia Vasquez noticed English Language Learners (ELLs) struggling due to the barrier of not understanding what the teachers said. Now, as an ELL paraprofessional, she is the one helping those in need.

Mrs. Vasquez liked having the opportunity to return to Kimmons. Before that, she worked as a sales associate at TJ Maxx and a waitress at Sam’s Eatery.

“As my first education job, I believe it was a great decision starting here because I feel like I am home,” Mrs. Vasquez said. “I love the diversity of students and how we are all individually different but together we are KMS.”

One of Mrs. Vasquez favorite memories of being an ELL paraprofessional is when her students were so happy to receive Christmas goodies.

“They were so surprised and felt very special since they didn’t expect anything,” Ms. Vasquez said. “Even though they are in middle school, they still need those exciting memories.”

A big challenge for Mrs. Vasquez was having so many students who needed the support.

“I didn’t know much about them at first, but I knew each and every one of them could be very successful,” Mrs. Vasquez said.

Outside of school, Mrs. Vasquez enjoys spending time with her daughter and family.

“With the daily routines, we are always very busy and don’t get to spend too much time together,” Mrs. Vasquez said.