Wethersfield Heroes: Jonna Roberge makes a difference

Note from the Editor: This is an article in a series called "Wethersfield Heroes," where our students work to highlight and honor those in our community going above and beyond amidst the tumultuous year. If you know someone that you would like to nominate as a Wethersfield Hero, please contact Mr. Martin at [email protected]. ​

by: Andrew Strong
  
 “My motto has always been whatever trouble I have that's going on in my life, I leave it at the door and I don't bring it into work.”

   Jonna Roberge is a paraprofessional in the Advanced Life Skills (ALS) program at Wethersfield High School. Not only does she love her job and help encourage her students, she also is an amazing person in school and out. When I interviewed Ms. Roberge, I realized that I wasn’t there for just an interview, I was there to meet a hero. 

   Before Ms. Roberge became a paraprofessional, she served in the Air Force, and it changed her life. The Air Force helped her grow and mature, which helped shape her for who she is today.

​Ms. Roberge said, “Going into the military gave me an opportunity to mature, to grow up, to think about my strengths, my weaknesses, what to work on, and it made me feel responsible for somebody other than myself. I can then now see how it carried over into my life as a wife, as a mom, as a co-worker, and in this program working here at the high school.”

   During the interview, she had one of her students with her, and the love and respect he had for  Ms. Roberge was clear. The positive impact that Ms. Roberge has on her students is incredible. Also, after the interview, Ms. Roberge continues to say hi to me every time in the halls, and asks how my day is going, and it makes me smile every time. I realized that Ms. Roberge can change a person's day around even by the little things.
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   Ms. Roberge’s story is so important to share, because she not only is a hero to us in Wethersfield, but is a hero to our nation. Thank you for serving, and thank you for being a hero to us in Wethersfield.