This week, GF Nation is celebrating the many school staff members who make learning possible — our Education Support Professionals! We’re kicking it off by featuring Kristen Seybolt, Secretary to the Director of Pupil Personnel Services. Kristen has been a valuable member of our Special Education Department since April 2023. Though she’s new to the role, she is not new to #GFNation as she is a GFHS 2001 graduate!
Kristen has quickly learned education procedures and protocols and the functions of the Special Education Department. She smoothly and efficiently fields phone calls, schedules meetings, and maintains various records. In the spirit of a true team member, she credits co-worker Zoe Stevens for her help and training. Kristen said, “One of the many rewarding parts of my job is assisting the staff in the special education department who work so hard to help students. You can tell they truly care and are passionate about providing the best education and support possible. I hope my presence helps to smooth some of the processes in the office, which in turn helps our students.”
Director of Pupil Personnel Services Becky Vanderklish says, “Kristen has been an AMAZING addition to our Special Education team. Her initiative is outstanding, while her learning curve seems non-existent. She is able to complete any task asked of her with minimal support and also takes it to the next level maximizing our resources to improve the existing structure. She does all this while being kind, considerate, thoughtful and just plain fun to have around.”
In her free time Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband Bryan, who teaches and coaches in the district; and her 10-year-old daughter who is a student in the district.
Throughout the week, Nov. 13-17, we are highlighting our “school superheroes” whose various careers touch the lives of our students and pave the way for success! Education Support Professionals—our teacher aides, teaching assistants, secretaries, custodians, and many other team members—play a crucial role in every school building, every day. Check back every day this week to read about our superhero team members who are being honored during ESP Week 2023!