Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Dwayne Ventry Jr, special education paraeducator at Irving Middle School.

“Dwayne is a team player and is always willing to help our students be successful both in and out of the classroom. He builds positive relationships with students and staff and consistently goes above and beyond to support even the most reluctant of learners. He has a great sense of humor and is kind, thoughtful and helpful in all situations.” - Rachael Kluck Spann, principal, Irving Middle School

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I’m a paraeducator (special education). My job is to provide overall support to students who utilize our Student Support Center. That includes helping execute safety plans, emotional support and just ensuring the kids’ well-being while they’re in the building. This extends to kids all around the building.

How long have you worked for LPS?
This is my third year.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I wanted to do work that was rewarding and impactful. My family actually suggested I give it a try. I do a little coaching, and they noticed the positive response I get from kids.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My absolute favorite part is being able to see my kids around the building! My other favorite part is being able to watch kids grow and mature from sixth grade to eighth grade.

In one word, what makes you proud to work for LPS?
Selflessness.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I attended a few schools. Shoutout to Elliott, Clinton, Prescott and Randolph, Park Middle School and Lincoln Northeast.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
After I graduated high school, I attended Wayne State College for a couple of years. I had no idea what career path I wanted to take. So, I left school, came back to Lincoln and found a job. I tried attending Southeast Community College a couple of times, but still couldn’t figure out what I wanted to do with my life.

Then, I started a family. I have three kids: Dwayne, Grace and Oliver. At that point, my life became all about supporting them. I worked a few different positions, one industrial job, but mostly in customer service. As a delivery driver, I worked for about 18 years until I stumbled upon this opportunity.

I loved it from day one. After all that time, I finally had found what I wanted to do. I think kids need to know that it’s OK to take an unconventional route to find your purpose. I’m now looking forward to start working toward my teaching degree.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
We look out for each other! 

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
My favorite childhood book was “The Ghost Next Door” from the Goosebumps series.

Share a shoutout to a former teacher who impacted your life.
Huge shoutout to Claude Coccodrilli, Richard Russo, Helen Adams, Joyce Adams (Elliott) and Beth Cook, Dolores Simpson-Kirkland, Todd Noble (Park Middle School) and Bruce Waters (Northeast). Thank you all for putting up with my nonsense and instilling confidence. And did I mention my nonsense?

Do you know an LPS staff member we should feature for Staff Spotlight? Fill out this form to nominate them!