“I could not do this job without my partnership with a paraeducator,” Killingly special education teacher Lisa Higgins tells CEA President Kate Dias and Vice President Joslyn DeLancey on the latest episode of CEA’s podcast. As we celebrate Education Support Professionals Day during American Education Week, it’s the perfect moment to spotlight the paraeducators and other school staff whose dedication makes an enormous difference in students’ lives.
Higgins, Killingly Education Association’s vice president, is joined on this episode by her partner in running Killingly’s transition program for 18- to 22-year-old special education students, paraeducator and AFSCME Council 4 Local 3698 president Michelle Pion, as well as Tricia Santos, a staff representative for AFSCME Council 4.
“Our teamwork together is what helps our students thrive; not another admin, not another program,” says DeLancey. “It’s all about the staff who work directly with students.”
This episode offers a candid look at how strong teacher–para partnerships transform student outcomes and strengthen school communities. Educators will also hear practical insights on building trust, sharing responsibilities, and navigating challenges as a united team
Listen to the full episode below or wherever you get your podcasts to learn more about Higgins and Pion’s work in the transition program as well as how certified staff and paras can best work together to help students thrive.
