Jessica campa, paraprofessional

Paraprofessional at G.W. Carver Elementary

what led you to working in education? i wanted to be a teacher, and then i got an opportunity to work as a paraprofessional. i was curious to figure out if i liked it or not and see if i still wanted to be a teacher after that. i don’t think i want to be a teacher now – i like this job more.

Who is the person that most influenced you, and how?

i had a teacher in high school – mr. Quintana. i’m horrible in math, but he would always tell me, “You can do it, you can do it.” he was an inspiration for all of us at Yuma high.

What is a typical day like for you?

my kids are kinder through fifth grade and i’m with them every day, but it always looks different. The schedule is the same, but you have your good days and you have your harder days. we rotate which kids we have, so it also depends on which child you have and whether they’re in a good mood or having a bad day.

What do you love most about your job?

interacting with the kids. They’re nonverbal, but i love that you know they love you because they say it with their face. There’s one who, every time i pick him up, gives me a thankyou kiss on the cheek.

if you could give any advice to parents, what would it be? with kids, you need patience – but with kids with special needs, you need more patience. it’s hard, especially if they have health conditions. it’s important for them to know that they’re not alone and we’re there to help them, too.

Where is your favorite place to be?

i love being here at school working.

Tell readers something about yourself that no one would have guessed.

i kind of want to work with animals, maybe be a vet tech or something.

What are your passions or hobbies?

i’m obsessed with dogs. i’m the crazy dog lady – i have three at home.

if you could visit one place on Earth where would you go? i’ve always wanted to go to Europe – everywhere in Europe. i want to see all the places and experience all their different cultures and languages, especially italy. i’d love to try their pizza and spaghetti.

What are your favorite foods?

here in the states i love Chinese food, but if i’m in mexico all i’m going to eat is mexican food.