Spotlight on Northfield's Educational Assistants: Theresa Brake

Editor's Note: Gov. Mark Dayton declared Jan. 16-20 as Paraprofessional Recognition Week. To recognize some of the professionals working in the Northfield school community, this week Northfield Patch features several of these people.

Name
Theresa Brake

Family
Husband, Curt; two sons, Joseph (18) and Adam (16); dog, Ollie.

School
I work at .  

How long have you been with ? 
I started my current instructional EA position in Feb. 2006. I was a substitute teacher for three years before that and I still sub occasionally.

How long have you been a paraprofessional?  
Same as above. I've only worked as an EA in Northfield.

Why did you want to become a paraprofessional?  
I have to admit, it was because of the school hours and the school calendar. I could work when my boys were in school and be off when they were off.

What's your favorite part of your job?  
I help teach kindergartners. When I'm teaching a new topic and all of a sudden the child will "get it." The proverbial light bulb comes on and their face becomes so excited and animated. It's wonderful.

What do you like to do when you're not working?   
Spend time with my boys, read, walk my dog, visit family and friends, and travel.

Favorite book
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

Favorite movie
The Lord of the Rings trilogy

Favorite cafeteria food
Turkey and mashed potatoes

Favorite subject when you were in school
Chemistry

Anything you'd like to add? 
I love what I do. It's amazing to see how much the kindergartners learn in just nine short months. I'm glad to be a part of that process. Also, I grew up in Nebraska and am a diehard Cornhusker fan!