As we all head back into buildings for our first week of in-person hybrid learning, we continue to recognize the Center Program staff who have been in our buildings serving students for some time already! Join us this week as we step into the Raptor Den at GVR MS.
Get to know the team that makes the Den dynamic for the GVR Raptors who learn in Center Programs: Brooke Mayrand, Lisa Buckner, and Dena Norton.
Brooke Mayrand, Center Program Lead
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
Favorite Part of the Job: Seeing and learning from the kids every day!
Why Center Programs are Important: Working with the students in the Center Program is incredibly rewarding. I love building relationships with the students and their parents and watching them grow. Our students are so capable of anything that they want to do. It is amazing to see them realize their own potential as they grow throughout middle school
Favorite Quarantine Treat: Ice Cream
Currently Reading: Educated by Tara Westover
Favorite Quarantine Activity: Skiing, snowmobiling, or being outside as much as possible
Lisa Buckner, CP Support Specialist
Hometown: Denver, CO
Favorite Part of the Job: The students! They are incredible!
What Brought You To This Work? I knew at 7 years of age that I wanted to work with kids and make a difference. I was given a special ability to connect to kids. I'm using that ability to learn and grow. I actually think I get more from the Center Program than I give.
Fun activity you’ve recently done in Center Programs: Teaching magic tricks! The kids love to learn them and have so much fun.
Currently Watching: Green Paradise on Prime. It's a beautiful show that highlights the most beautiful, green places on Earth. Now, I want to go to Bimini!
Favorite Vacation Spot: This year it was Rifle Falls State Park! Honestly, I was so impressed. I like National Parks, Dry Tortugas and Acadia were amazing, so is the Grand Canyon. Each one is awesome...
Dena Norton, CP Support Specialist
Hometown: Roswell, NM
Favorite Part of the Job: The culture and community of GVR MS
What Brought You to this Work?: My grandmother had polio and was unable to use her legs without the help of braces and crutches. She was the most determined woman I've known. She learned a trade and raised a family. She and my Buddhist practice have taught me that everyone is equal and deserves the same opportunities. I feel my work in the Center Program has allowed me to put these beliefs into practice. This is the most rewarding job I've ever had!
Currently Reading: I just finished The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time. It's about a boy with autism solving a mystery. I highly recommend it.
Favorite Quarantine Activity: Watching documentaries.
Currently Watching: Lately I've been into documentaries on different religions. I feel it helps me understand folks of different faiths and I enjoy the history lessons too.
