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Region 9 Education Service Center

Every learner. Every opportunity. Every day.

April 30, 2026

WGU Honors Local Educators in 2026 Paraprofessional Appreciation Contest

Collage of winners and runners up holding their prizes

WICHITA FALLS, TX — To celebrate the vital role of paraprofessionals in education, Western Governors University (WGU) recently hosted its 2026 "Why I Love What I Do" contest. WGU invited paraprofessionals, teacher aides, and assistants to share their personal stories about why they love their profession.

WGU selected one winner and runners-up from each participating school and district, rewarding their dedication with "Night In/Night Out" gift packages and WGU goodie bags. This year’s entries highlighted the emotional connections and professional growth that define the paraprofessional experience.

Inspiring Stories from Our Winners

The winning entries reflected a common theme: the profound impact of building relationships with students across their educational journeys.

  • Jasmine Lockridge (Prairie Valley Elementary, Prairie Valley ISD): Jasmine, who is now pursuing a teaching certification, shared that being a paraprofessional gave her a sense of purpose. "I learned how to meet kids where they are... and how to see each child as their own unique person," she wrote, noting that the relationships she builds are what she holds "closest to my heart".
  • Sarah Daggett (Fain Elementary, Wichita Falls ISD): Sarah described her work as one of the most "challenging yet rewarding experiences" of her life. She finds joy in the breakthrough moments: "There is nothing quite like the moment when a student grasps a new concept and their face illuminates with pride and confidence".
  • Kindra Clark (West Foundation Elementary, Wichita Falls ISD): Kindra enjoys the long-term journey of her students. "I get to meet them in kindergarten... and then I get to watch them walk in year after year with more and more confidence," she shared, adding that she feels honored to be part of the learning process.

Recognizing Our Runners-Up

WGU and Region 9 also celebrate the following educators for their outstanding contributions and heartfelt submissions:

  • Prairie Valley ISD: Taylor Weaver, Kim Johnston, and Dusty Smith.
  • Wichita Falls ISD: Taleyah Taylor, Savannah Boatman, Angelia Shortt, and Shahana Sultana Alam.