LITH Elementary Paraprofessional Recognized for Upbeat Attitude

After nearly 10 years working as a paraprofessional at Patricia Hammersmith loves her job every bit as much today as when she first stepped foot in the school. 

“I always wanted to be a teacher, but I stayed home with my family,” said Hammersmith, an Algonquin mother of four children now ages 18, 22, 24, and 25 years old. “I love my job. I really love the students.”

Hammersmith’s upbeat attitude and ever-pleasant personality is what lead LITH Elementary School Principal Tammy Poole to recommend Hammersmith for a new Patch.com feature: “Unsung Heroes in Our Schools.” 

“Mrs. Hammersmith is not only a wonderful paraprofessional, but a wonderful human being,” Poole said.

“I’ve never seen her without a smile on her face. She never complains about anything. She loves the kids, and loves her job.”

As a paraprofessional — formerly referred to as a classroom aide —Hammersmith works with small groups of special education and at-risk children.

She also helps out in specific classrooms at LITH Elementary, assisting all students. This year, Hammersmith is working with kindergarteners, second and fourth graders, Poole said.

Hammersmith said she likes the warm, family atmosphere of LITH Elementary, a school with about 500 students located at 519 Willow St. She considers herself fortunate to work at the school where the students welcome her help.

“This is such a beautiful school,” Hammersmith said.

“It’s warm, comfortable. It’s like a family here," she said. "I heard one student say, ‘I feel like I belong here.’ That’s what it’s like. The kids are grateful. The teachers are grateful.  I feel blessed to have a job here.”

Hammersmith, 52, was somewhat bashful about Poole recommending her for Patch’s new honor. A tiny woman with a soft-spoken voice, Hammersmith blushed and smiled when asked for a photograph.

“I am really honored by this recognition,” Hammersmith said.

Do you know someone who should be featured in a LITH Patch's Unsung Heroes in our Schools feature? The purpose of the feature is to give recognition to those who might otherwise fly under the radar —school aides, crossing guards, janitors and/or school bus drivers — and make a difference in our children's lives. Send any nominations to Amie Schaenzer at amie.schaenzer@patch.com.