Local Resident Named AACPS Employee of the Month

Whether it is supporting instructional activities in the classroom, making sure Kindergarten students make it safely to the bus, or ensuring parents are comfortable in the school building, Dana Kennedy is an essential part of the lives of students, teachers, and parents at Arnold Elementary School.

And for her efforts, she was recently recognized by Superintendent Kevin Maxwell and the county Board of Education as Employee of the Month for February.

On any given day, you can walk into an AES Kindergarten classroom and find Kennedy providing help to students in a small group setting. She runs an Early Intervention Reading group, keeping close track of all of her students, their achievements, and their challenges.

Kennedy is especially appreciated by the school’s special education teachers, as she works patiently and compassionately with students who have learning and behavior challenges.

She also serves as a proctor for the school during the Maryland State Assessments and as a tutor for enrichment programs.

“As a former parent, Mrs. Kennedy is connected to a number of families in the community and provides a valuable link between the school and the Kindergarten parents,” said principal Rosemary Biggart. “She often assists in contacting parents, introducing new families to our school, and providing regular feedback to her parents about their children’s progress.”

Kennedy said it was a complete surprise when she was recognized during a recent board of education meeting. “I went with Ms. Biggart for another reason and then I heard them say Arnold Elementary,” Kennedy recalled. “I was so surprised, and my husband even got to come.”

Her work at the school has inspired her to enroll in a degree program to become a certified teacher.

“I just love what I do,” said Kennedy about her role at AES. “I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.”