Bellwood Paraprofessionals Honored with Day of Celebration and Professional Development
- Chris Coffey
- 35 minutes ago
- 2 min read
On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, West40 hosted a day of celebration and professional learning dedicated to the paraprofessionals of Bellwood School District 88.
West40 professional learning specialist Demain LaPointe opened the event, which featured workshops led by keynote speakers Brittany Richmond and Dr. Taya Kinzie. Both presenters shared practical strategies designed to support paraprofessionals in their work with students and in their own personal well-being.
"We have a strong partner in Bellwood. We decided to put together a day to celebrate the paraprofessionals who are working in some of the toughest opportunities and supports," LaPointe said.
Paraprofessionals play a critical role in supporting students with a wide range of academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs—work that often requires both skill and emotional resilience.
“The work that they do takes a lot from them every day and so this is an opportunity to really pour back into them and just fill their toolbox in regards to the social emotional aspects of the work that they do being co-regulators with students,” said Dr. Corina Herrera, Bellwood District 88 Director of Special Education and Student Services.
Much of that work, however, often goes unseen.
“A lot of people have no idea that being a paraprofessional is the hardest job in the school. I’m going to honor and recognize their efforts because people have no idea how much they do,” said Kinzie, who brings more than 25 years of experience in education as a case manager, social worker, dean of students, associate principal, and assistant superintendent/principal.
During her presentation, Kinzie explored the impact of both personal and professional grief and how it can surface in everyday interactions. She emphasized the importance of leaving with actionable strategies, as well as the confidence to seek support when needed.
“I want them to feel seen and heard and honored, first and foremost,” Kinzie said.
Richmond, who presents nationally on anxiety and emotional well-being, encouraged participants to engage in a series of icebreaker conversations. The activities built toward a communication strategy she calls “Tell Me More,” designed to help individuals open up and feel safe.
“It helps build a bridge out of isolation. We don’t teach people enough to talk about how they feel,” Richmond said.
Lunch was provided on-site at the hotel, with the event funded through grant support.
“Hopefully they’ll feel rejuvenated and have some tools to go back to the classroom and be celebrated for the work they do,” LaPointe said.