Star Journal report

A paraprofessional at Pelican Elementary School received a big honor and a big surprise May 17. Renee Miszewski was named as a Wisconsin Council of Administrators of Special Services Paraprofessional of the Year. Teacher Denise Check and Principal Martha Knudtson nominated her for the Special Education Paraprofessional award. This is a statewide event through all the 12 CESAs. This award came from CESA 9.

Miszewski has been a special education paraprofessional in the School District of Rhinelander for 15 years.

“Having this opportunity to work with Renee is a great honor,” said Principal Martha Knudtson. “She is upbeat, kind-hearted, and is always smiling. Renee is a real pleasure to work with, and I’m proud to call her a colleague as well as a friend!”

According to her co-workers, Miszewski stands out because of her willingness to go above and beyond even when no one is watching. She is known for using all sorts of techniques and multisensory approaches to help her students learn and for coming up with creative projects that keep the students engaged, challenging their fine motor and cognitive skills.

Most recently, Pelican celebrated Grandparents Day by inviting grandparents to have lunch with their grandchild.  Miszewski was instrumental in planning the event, taking pictures of the grandparent and grandchild, as well as creating a keepsake for all to take home. Renee has also been the leader in planning fun activities for teachers to recognize them during Teacher Appreciation Week. Last year, she created a “red carpet” for teachers to walk down and be recognized.

Others stated that Renee is at work every day before her scheduled hours, and will often stay late.