By Raphael Maurice

For Amber Wood, the safety of students is job number one.

Amber Wood, the Administrative Assistant for the Principal at Je-Neir Elementary, finds her day-to-day tasks diverse and engaging. She's adept at "putting out fires," a skill that encompasses a range of responsibilities. These include assisting IT with extra tasks, managing payroll, ensuring school security, and providing support to teachers. Above all, her focus is on the well-being of the students. Amber has always felt a calling to this school, having volunteered before transitioning to her full-time role. Her dedication shines through in her willingness to give her time freely, expecting nothing in return.

Having lived in the area since she was thirteen, Amber graduated from Momence High School and assumed her role as Administrative Assistant in 2020. She's committed to ensuring that Je-Neir Elementary remains a safe haven for children. Kids feel comfortable approaching her, assured they'll be heard and their concerns addressed seriously. Amber, along with her colleagues, takes necessary precautions to maintain a secure environment for everyone at the school.

“I have to tell the parents, too,” Amber explains, “when we take the kids around every year, showing different areas, we emphasize that our biggest rule is safety. You don't let anybody in, even if it's mommy or Grandma. You don't. You come to us, and we will handle it.” Her expertise in enforcing these rules is a testament to her dedication to consistent safety measures.

Speaking about her connection to the school and the town, Amber notes, “We still really try to be a family here: your neighbors, your friends. Looking out for each other is the biggest thing, especially for the kids. You want them to be safe in the world we have now. In this community, caring for neighbors and kids is a strength – we always put the kids first.” Putting kids first is Amber's top priority, and her experience as both an administrator and a parent gives her a unique perspective. She understands the intricacies of school policy and parental concerns, making her a compassionate and effective administrator.

Just this past Veteran’s Day, Amber and the school honored war heroes with a breakfast and a ceremony. It was a day to remember the living and fallen heroes. “We were one of the only schools in the area where our students attended,” Amber recalls. “And they were there because we were honoring the veterans. We wanted to show our respect and support, whether in wartime or not, and the kids took pride in it.” Witnessing children engage with veterans was a heartwarming experience, bridging generations and honoring those who've served.

For Amber Wood, these moments are small miracles. She's not just putting out fires; she's igniting sparks of respect, safety, and community spirit.