School Volunteer Of The Year Indispensable At Pasadena Elementary

PASADENA, MD – A familiar face gracing the halls of Pasadena Elementary School has brought smiles to hundreds of students and staff members alike. For more than 15 years, Richard Watts has chaperoned BizTown field trips, made copies for teachers and laminated materials. He’s a fixture at the school and a much appreciated helping hand.

Because of that, Watts was named the 2019 Anne Arundel County Public Schools volunteer of the year. Watts began volunteering when his grandson started kindergarten. That grandson graduated from high school two years ago.

“Mr. Watts’ sense of belonging and support is unparalleled,” Pasadena Elementary Principal Jen Quirino said in a statement. “He often plans vacations around school activities, and ensures volunteer needs are satisfied ahead of his personal plans.”

When school events draw large crowds, Watts fills in as a shuttle driver and transports teachers to their cars so that visitors can park closer to the school.

“He is a ray of sunshine even on the cloudiest of days,” fifth-grade teacher Dana DiGiorgio said in a statement.

Perhaps the biggest most heartwarming tribute to Watts has come from students. When asked to submit names of heroes who have made a difference at the school, Watts’ name came up so often that an annual award now bears his name.