Staff Spotlight: Early childhood parapro Lori Cook assists children in developing a strong foundation

Preschool paraprofessional Lori Cook plays a key role in the future development of so many children in the district. Photo credit: Amy Haggerty

by Amy Haggerty

A preschool paraprofessional is an important member of the educational team as they assist in orienting young children to education, care, and nurturing in the classroom. Lori Cook has been working with this age group for twenty years in the Stockbridge Community School District. Every day she assists young students with handling personal care and learning new skills. She also assists in the planning that takes place to get each child ready for kindergarten.

In Stockbridge, the preschool program is housed in the Smith Elementary building, where the kindergarten through second-grade programs also reside. Cook is instrumental in making the transition to school seamless for preschool-aged children.

Growing up in Dexter, Mich., Cook was the daughter of Don and Mary Ray. She attended Dexter High School and took classes in child care to further develop her interest in working with preschoolers. Cook mentioned that it was her mother Mary who had the biggest influence on her. She describes her mom as caring and someone who always helped others.

After high school, Cook married her husband, Bob. Their big day was April 1, 1989.They have two children together; she considers her two boys to be her greatest accomplishment in life. Bobby is 25, and Kyle is 23.

“Stockbridge is where my children went to school,” Cook remarked as she explains how important it was to her to work close to home to be available for her kids. She’s always enjoyed working in the district and credits her coworkers and the students as the reasons she’s been happy with her job.

Coworker Sue Gasieski explains that the feeling is mutual. “Lori does an amazing job. She spends her own money and gives much of her extra time discovering creative things for the kids to do.” Cook also comes highly recommended by staff at Smith.

Returning to one of her favorite topics—the kids—Cook has played a key role in the future development of the children in the district. Thanks to her, so many of our children have developed that important foundation they need for the future.

Cook’s advice to Stockbridge Students: “Follow your dreams and keep moving forward.