BEATRICE – Leading your elementary students through a hallway can typically be a routine part of the day. But not today… for Kathy Casey.


She rounded a corner to a hallway full of students, learning she is the Zoellner Family Paradeducator of the Year, at the Beatrice Elementary School.


Described as the ultimate paraeducator who is also asking which children need one-on-tutoring and a stickler for preparation each day…..Casey was presented with a star trophy and a one-thousand dollar check Tuesday morning, by members of the Zoellner Family. Jason Zoellner says paraeducators can have a big impact on children’s lives.


"The last few years we thought it was very important to be a part of our school system and honor those people that give extra back to the kids, and make an impact. I have a sister who was a para for most of her career. She made an impact and made an impact on all of us. Going to her kids' graduation and hearing from them about what an impact their para made in there life. And so, we thought, well there's a teacher's award that other people provide...so we thought we'd honor a para. With that, thank you very much for all you do for all the kids and the impact you make in their lives...and we'd like to reward you for your efforts."


The family, which owns Zoellner Ford-Lincoln and Zoellner Design Company, each year has honored a Paraeducator of the Year, through the Beatrice Educational Foundation.


Those who nominated Kathy Casey for the award called her a teacher teammate, in tune with the classrooms she serves, able to anticipate upcoming needs….showing respect for her students….as an all-hands-on-deck team player….making sure each student believes they can succeed.


Said Casey….”I love what I do….and I hope it shows.”