Celebrating ESP Week: Jennifer Donnelly at Big Cross

“Starting out at Big Cross four years ago was nerve-racking,” admits Teaching Assistant Jennifer Donnelly. “I had never been in this type of atmosphere before, but when I entered the building a family greeted me,” she explained. “Being able to have the feeling of going to work, to a family, is a great feeling.”

Ms. Donnelly brings smiles, laughter, and genuine joy to students in Shannon West’s kindergarten classroom every single day. “These little kiddos definitely keep me on my toes,” Jennifer says. “Our days are full and rewarding — packed with learning, redirection, compassion, understanding, and behavior regulation.”

In the classroom, she runs math and ELA centers and helps create daily plans that support student growth. “And of course, no Kindergarten day is complete without play time — everyone's favorite part of the day, including mine! It's amazing to watch students learn, explore, and build social skills through play.”

By working closely with students and giving individual attention to each, Ms. Donnelly helps build their confidence, strengthen skills, and support academic growth. “Her knowledge of our students and the ways she supports them is truly unmatched,” notes Mrs. West. “She is flexible, eager to teach, and always ready to step in with whatever the students need. Words cannot express how grateful I am to work side by side with someone so exceptional. She consistently brings thoughtful ideas to the table, and I deeply value her insight and creativity.”

 

Principal Paul Morcone calls Ms. Donnelly the definition of flexibility and positivity. “From supervising students at the start of each day to guiding small group centers across multiple classrooms, she seamlessly steps into whatever role is needed — even covering a variety of positions without hesitation,” says Mr. Morcone. “Whether she's supporting students during lunch and recess or collaborating with teachers to ensure every child's needs are met, Ms. Donnelly approaches each responsibility with a reflective mindset and open communication. What truly sets her apart is her willingness to go far beyond her job description, always saying ‘yes’ with a smile and bringing an infectious positivity that brightens our entire school community.”

Ms. Donnelly says that by guiding students through redirection, compassion and regulation strategies, she helps create a safe, calm environment where students can focus, learn, and thrive. “Watching her interact with our students makes it clear how much she loves her work and how committed she is to helping every child thrive,” says Mrs. West.

“The most rewarding part of my job is seeing small moments of growth — when a child understands a concept, uses their words to solve a problem, or shows kindness without prompting,” reflects Ms. Donnelly. “The relationships I build with students remind me daily why I love what I do.” 

Jennifer grew up in the small town of Lowville in Northern New York, and attended college at SUNY Potsdam. She says she’s come to realize that her Big Cross family extends all the way throughout GF Nation, and she looks forward to many more years with Glens Falls City Schools!

Throughout the week, Nov. 17-21, we are highlighting our staff members whose various careers touch the lives of our students and pave the way for success! Education Support Professionals—our teacher aides, teaching assistants, secretaries, custodians, and many other team members—play a crucial role in every school building, every day. Check back every day this week to read about our wonderful team members who are being honored during ESP Week 2025!