For Jerran Wielgus, a paraprofessional at Momence Junior High, her job is more than a series of tasks—it’s a shared responsibility to ensure every student and staff member has the support they need. From her dedicated role in the Emotional Development (ED) classroom to her contributions across the school, Jerran embodies the idea that education is a collaborative effort.

Jerran’s journey into education was not a conventional one. With a background as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), she spent over a decade caring for the elderly. But a friend encouraged her to apply for a health aide position at Momence, which set her on a new path. “It was uncomfortable at first, stepping into a completely different field,” she admits. “But I’ve loved every minute of it.”

Initially hired to assist a single student as a health aide, Jerran found herself transitioning into the ED program when the student moved on to high school. “I was terrified,” she recalls. “Taking care of someone’s immediate needs was one thing, but the idea of being responsible for shaping young minds? That was daunting.”

But it turned out Jerran was exactly where she needed to be. Her coworkers, who affectionately call themselves “The Dream Team,” made it clear they had requested her specifically for the position. “That felt amazing,” Jerran says. “To know that they believed in me—that they saw something in me—was incredibly motivating.”

The ED classroom, which serves students across fifth, seventh, and eighth grades, focuses on helping children navigate big emotions and build the skills they need to thrive. “We work on accountability, respect, and communication,” Jerran explains. “It’s about helping them understand their feelings and how to handle them constructively.”

The program operates on a level system, with students earning privileges as they demonstrate growth in areas like time management and respecting boundaries. “It’s not just about following rules,” she says. “It’s about learning life skills that will carry them beyond these walls.”

Jerran’s influence extends far beyond the classroom. She’s often seen pitching in wherever help is needed—whether it’s covering lunch duty, assisting in the office, or writing tardy passes when a secretary is delayed. “I don’t have to be asked,” she says. “I want to help. I’m always thinking, ‘How can we make what we have better?’”

Her colleagues value her proactive approach and her ability to bring new ideas to the table. At parent-teacher conferences, she pulled administrators aside to share suggestions for improvement. “Things are great, but they can always be better,” she says. “And they appreciated that feedback.”

One of Jerran’s favorite contributions has been helping to create a welcoming atmosphere in the ED program. Inspired by her colleague, Mr. Grahania, she embraced the idea of “sparkle”—a theme that’s become a mantra for their team. String lights now hang in the hallway outside their classroom, symbolizing the positive energy they aim to bring to their students and the school community.

“It’s about showing that we’re doing great things here,” she says. “We want our students to feel that energy and know they’re part of something special.”

Reflecting on her time at Momence, Jerran credits the school’s culture for making it a place she loves to work. “It’s the people,” she says simply. “Everyone here is so supportive. We’re like a family, and that makes all the difference.”

Jerran’s journey from healthcare to education highlights the power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to discover a new calling. For the students of Momence Junior High, her dedication and warmth are a constant reminder that no matter how difficult life’s challenges may be, there’s always a way to sparkle.