Nancy was born and raised in Kelso and attended Kelso Public Schools, as did her children. She was trained at the Department of Corrections Academy working with adults and eventually took a job as a paraeducator. Nancy’s training in de-escalation made her a good fit for behavior classrooms, and over the years she volunteered with many district programs. During the pandemic Nancy applied for and was offered the position of homeless liaison. She has created a program focused on supporting whole families and regularly collaborates with 14 schools and community leaders.
Nancy says, “I wish more people could see the successes of my students and families, no matter how big or small. Meeting a goal of meeting one's needs looks different to everyone. I worry about the stigma attached to my students and families who struggle daily with food and housing insecurities. What is commonplace for us is not for them. Walking into the classroom and being greeted with a smile goes a long way. My students want to be treated with the same respect that all students are treated with.”
