Dorothy Triplett, Paraeducator in the Federal Way School District

Dorothy Triplett began working as a paraeducator, in the Federal Way School District, in 1994. Before becoming a paraeducator she retired from Northwest Airlines as a credit union supervisor and loan officer. Dorothy was looking for something to do so she wouldn’t be bored in retirement. Dorothy has kept busy throughout her life. She went to college for the 1st time at the age of 43 (her husband and a daughter had died the year before). She has found that the best way of getting through difficult times is keeping busy, and being a paraeducator definitely keeps her busy.

As a paraeducator her job includes: one-on-one tutoring in the LAP Program, monitoring in the lunchroom and guiding students that have made poor choices in the ‘Reflection Room’.

The things that Dorothy likes best about her job are: working with a caring and supportive staff and she finds it very rewarding watching students achieve their goals. The ‘Reflection Room’ is one of the best parts of her day because of the one-on-one interaction. In the ‘Reflection Room’ she is able to get to know the students and help them make positive choices in the future. The students see Dorothy as a ‘special grandma’ and as Dorothy says, “I get a lot of hugs and I’m able to give a lot, and I think the kids just need that!”.

The other paraeducators in her school are inspired by Dorothy’s work ethic, positive attitude and dedication. Mike Benoit, her principal, says of Dorothy, “ Dorothy truly is an inspiration, her bright smile, youthful energy and dedication to the students are appreciated by all at Sherwood Forest Elementary School”.

Dorothy’s other special interests are her daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter and grandson. She also enjoys volunteering at the local homeless shelter and at DAWN (Domestic Abuse Women’s Network).

Dorothy looks forward to coming to work each day and has no plans to retire (again) even at the age of 73.

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