March SotM – Ms. Battle

Across the United States, there are over 10,000 school districts understaffed. Millions of students and teachers attempt to bridge the gap left behind by the education field’s unenviable characteristics. However, it would be a lie to say they are alone in this struggle. One of the most important figures to help minimize this deficit are paraprofessionals; Ms. Tanija Battle, Tucker High School’s Staff of the Month, embodies the role to perfection. 

Many paraprofessionals would see their job as merely an assistant, pushing papers until they get the opportunity to become an administrator or teacher. Ms. Battle approaches the job with a different perspective. As a paraprofessional, every day is an opportunity to learn from her students. Addressing a diverse range of challenges, managing intricate emotions, and establishing connections with complex personalities can present significant hurdles; it can also offer profound opportunities for growth and understanding. “A teaching experience for sure,” Ms. Battle comments. With over 20 years of experience in the education industry, she believes a good paraprofessional is nothing without passion and a positive attitude. Despite how rough, how demanding, and how costly her job can be, Ms. Battle’s passion for her school is one few can parallel. 

Ms. Battle’s optimism extends past the classroom and into her coaching style. As with many sports, the Tucker High School Junior Varsity Cheerleading Team team was often regarded as second string to varsity. It was a space to foster new talent but not to build a lasting legacy or strong relationships – at least not how athletes would on a varsity team. This was a stereotype many could attest to but few had the passion to change. Ms. Battle was not one of these few. 

Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, the prevalence of community and family in Ms. Battle’s early life was undeniable. She attributes her love for her team and the zeal she has to watch them thrive on and off the field to her upbringing. Her grandmother and her mother taught her the value of “paying it forward”, and Ms. Battle’s experience showed her the impact kindness can have on even the most misunderstood. 

Ms. Battle navigated the challenges of the cheerleading team with a confident gait and an infectious smile. She hosted several events outside of practice to strengthen the bond between teammates and coupled this with programs promoting inter-level interaction like the “Big Sister, Little Sister” program. Ms. Battle transformed the JV cheerleading team from an overlooked, average stepping stone to the strong foundation of generations of athletes’ success. 

With a passion for her role in students’ lives as a paraprofessional, in her cheerleaders’ lives as their coach, and for the community she lives in, Ms. Battle displays proudly the qualities of the Tucker staff, and we appreciate her for it.