For Immediate Release:
Contact: Leah Barnes, Paw Paw Early Elementary Principal
leah.barnes@ppps.org
269-415-5300
Paw Paw, MI - Julie Dolezan, a first-year Paw Paw Early Elementary Special Education Paraprofessional, was surprised to learn that she was recently nominated and named an 2023 Excellence in Education Support Staff Award winner by the Van Buren Intermediate School District's Parent Advisory Committee.
Paw Paw Early Elementary Principal Leah Barnes had this to say, "Julie is willing to do anything, and is always asking how she can help others. She is the definition of a team player and goes about her work with such grace and positivity."
A resident of Hartford, Julie was looking to get back in the workforce after many years at home as a full-time mom. With two high school aged-children, one of whom has high-functioning autism, she saw this job as a natural fit and felt the timing was right to go back to work.
When asked how she likes her job at Paw Paw Early Elementary, she said, "The people here are so welcoming, and they really look out for each other," adding, "I really liked the emphasis the district puts on social and emotional growth. I love to see the progress, the growth, and the connections, and I like providing a happy place for kids!"
All 2023 award recipients are invited to attend a reception to be held in their honor on May 4, 2023 at the Van Buren I.S.D. Conference Center.