In the colorful classrooms of Bulldog Early Learning Academy (BELA), where 3-to-5-year-olds take their first steps into formal education, six remarkable women are on a journey that extends far beyond their daily responsibilities. Michelle Douglas, Olivia Farmer, Heather Johnson, Destiny Blackwell, Lydia Jennings, and Meghyn McDonald aren't just paraprofessionals—they're students themselves, pursuing degrees in early childhood education while helping shape young minds.

"I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up until now," confesses Olivia Farmer, who left a lucrative medical office position to work at BELA after persistent encouragement from Principal Alesha Allen. Like many of her colleagues, what began as a job soon revealed itself as a calling.

These six women work across BELA's seven classrooms—each with a certified teacher and two paraprofessionals—supporting nearly 130 preschoolers. The school's free, full-day program provides breakfast, lunch, snack, and even nap time, creating a comprehensive early learning experience with a waiting list "a mile long."

Their role extends far beyond the common misconception of "glorified babysitting." As Lydia Jennings explains, "The majority of our education, our teaching is social-emotional learning at this age. We teach problem-solving skills... everything is mostly play-based learning."

This play-based approach is carefully structured and guided. "When I started, I thought play-based curriculum—what on earth could that be?" Farmer recalls. "But it's not just 'go play.' We have specific centers aligned with state standards, specific questions to ask them, and interactions designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills—things children need before they can receive any academic information."

Each paraprofessional has her favorite part of the day. For McDonald, who works with special education students, it's "connecting with them—they really have my heart." Blackwell loves morning drop-off when excited children share weekend adventures. Jennings enjoys getting "on the floor" during center time, tapping into children's imaginations. Johnson treasures those breakthrough moments when "they break down that wall with you and you can see that they trust you."

For Douglas, it's witnessing growth—"seeing them learn to interact, talk, share toys, and express their feelings." Farmer, who identifies as "more academic," loves February through May: "From seeing them not even recognize their name to putting all their letters in order without reference—you literally see it click in real-time."

What's remarkable is that all six women decided to pursue education degrees after starting at BELA—a testament to Principal Allen's extraordinary leadership. "If it weren't for Alesha Allen, I would not be going back to school," Johnson states emphatically. "She has pushed and supported each and every one of us to our fullest extent."

Allen didn't just encourage them; she brought in university representatives to explain financial aid options and arranged the "teach grant" that helps cover their education costs. She works around their school schedules when they need observation hours and provides unwavering support for their professional growth.

This support is crucial because, as Johnson candidly notes, “This is not for the paycheck."

Indeed, these women juggle tremendous responsibilities. Between them, they parent more than 20 children while working full-time and pursuing degrees.

The impact of their work extends beyond their classrooms. BELA has monthly parent-child activities, as well as book fairs, art shows, and fundraisers.

"In our classrooms, there should be three people—one teacher and two paraprofessionals," Johnson explains. "But from an outsider looking in, once you step into our classroom, you can't tell us apart. We are equal."

This team approach creates an extraordinary environment where learning flourishes. As Douglas reflects, "I absolutely know this is where I'm supposed to be." Six women, finding their calling while going the extra mile for Harrisburg's youngest students—a perfect illustration of how education transforms lives on both sides of the classroom.