Four members of the Class of 2025 are now back on HSD campuses working as paraeducators to support students from Kindergarten all the way up through our 18-22 Transition Program. Colton Rodrigue (pictured L) works at Hockinson Middle School, Cannon Major (pictured R) supports the transition program, and Lilah Morguess and Izak Nairis are part of the team at Hockinson Heights Elementary School.
Lilah Morguess
The quartet began building classroom support skills as students in Leslie Ruby’s Peer Mentor program at Hockinson High School, where they gained hands-on experience working alongside teachers and supporting their peers who had special needs.
“The Peer Mentor program gave me real experience working with students, so I felt more confident stepping into this role right after graduation,” said Major.
Izak Nairis
The Peer Mentor Program provides Hockinson High School students with training and responsibilities that develop communication, problem-solving, and instructional support skills in a classroom setting. Along the way, students gain insight into careers in education.
Currently, 18 high school students participate in the Peer Mentor Program. These students now have role models if they develop an interest in serving as a paraprofessional after graduation.
How does Mrs. Ruby feel about her former students remaining in the district as co-workers? "It is incredibly rewarding to see former Peer Mentors apply their skill sets in professional capacities in support of student learning,” said Ruby.