Donna Chesnut’s story is one of devotion—to her family, her students, and the community she has called home for decades. For the past 17 years, Donna has served as a Title 1 paraprofessional at Jasper County Schools, helping young learners in reading and math. Her role, however, extends far beyond academics; she is a steadfast presence for students in need of encouragement, patience, and care.

Born and raised in Clay County, Donna’s journey began in a close-knit rural community before leading her to Jasper County, where she settled after marrying her husband. Together, they raised three boys, all of whom attended Jasper County Schools. Donna reflects on this chapter with fondness. “It was go, go, go,” she says with a laugh. “Now we’re empty nesters with grandkids, but those years shaped who I am.”

Before joining the school district, Donna’s career took several turns, each rooted in service. While earning a degree in social services from Eastern Illinois University, she worked with abused women as an intern at the SWAN program, and later taught life skills to adults with disabilities, and served as a caseworker for seven years. Her professional journey paused when she chose to stay home with her children, a decision she describes as “the hardest and best thing I ever did.”

Returning to the workforce in 2007 Donna continued to serve by teaching GED classes at OCC before finding her way to Jasper County Schools a year later, first as a classroom aide and then as a member of the Title 1 program. The program focuses on helping students who need extra support in reading and math, and Donna has become an integral part of its success.

“We’re like a family,” Donna says of the Title 1 team, which includes three teachers and two paraprofessionals. “Each of us has our strengths, and we work together to provide the best interventions for our students.”

In her role, Donna works with small groups of first through sixth graders, tailoring lessons to their specific needs. Whether focusing on phonics, comprehension, or fluency, she aims to create a nurturing environment where students feel safe to take risks and grow.

“We monitor their progress weekly and adjust as needed,” she explains. “It’s about finding what works for each child and celebrating every small victory.”

Donna’s commitment extends beyond the Title 1 room. She supervises students during lunch and morning duties, opportunities she uses to connect with children outside the classroom. “Sometimes you see a different side of them during those moments,” she says. “It’s a chance to build relationships and understand their world a little better.”

Reflecting on her career, Donna acknowledges that her path wasn’t what she originally envisioned. “I thought I’d be working with adults my whole life,” she says. “But I’ve found my place here, and it feels right.”

Now nearing the end of her professional journey, Donna finds herself grappling with the idea of stepping away. “It’s hard to imagine not being here every day, seeing those little faces light up when they succeed,” she says. “But I know it’s been a fulfilling chapter, and I’m grateful for every moment.”

For Donna Chesnut, the heart of her work lies in providing children with the confidence and tools they need to thrive. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to the next generation.