Emily Cotchett

After going to college for psychology, Emily Cotchett decided to become a paraprofessional. She first was introduced to being a paraprofessional when she substituted at the Rise program’s camp last summer.  Cotchett loved the work she did and decided to apply for the position, stating that she loves the everyday energy and unexpectedness that comes with the job.

What are your specific responsibilities, or what is your job specifically here?

I’m a paraprofessional in the special education program. And throughout the day, I’ll be partnered with five or six different kids. I just go with them from class to class and assist them with any of their homework. I’ll help them make sure they are staying focused, on task, and not disturbing anyone.

Why do you prefer to work with special education students rather than mainstream classes?

I have a lot of experience in my family [because] my youngest sister has struggled with social anxiety quite a lot. I went to school for psychology and just wanted to help kids who had it a little bit harder.

Do you have any stories or special moments when you really bonded with a student?

It’s all the little moments.  Every little thing is sometimes really hard for the kids I work with.  Just asking them to sit down or just go to the next class is really hard for some of them.  If I’m able to redirect their attention and help them focus better on the task at hand, it feels really good. I love being able to make these kids feel like they can do it, even when it could be the end of the world in their mind.

What is your favorite thing about being a teacher and working with students?  

I love the energy in here.  It’s all over the place. You never know what to expect.  It’s pretty exciting, which a lot of people may not like, but I like the uncertainty throughout the day.

Why did you choose to work with high school students?

I used to work with younger kids up to seven years old.  Most of them were completely nonverbal, so it was a much different experience. Then I started working with high school kids, and I like it a lot because you can have more conversation with kids. They are closer to starting their whole life, and you can really help them get to the point to where they’re going to be once they graduate from high school. It feels more proactive.