Connie Douglas Makes A Difference at Columbia Elementary!

Connie Douglas makes a difference in the lives of the students at Columbia Elementary School.  This year she was recognized by the CES staff with the “You Make A Difference Award.”  She is an amazing asset to the students and teachers.  As the librarian, her enthusiasm for reading and getting children excited to read more books is infectious! When asked why she likes to work at Columbia Elementary School, Mrs. Douglas said, “It is the absolute best place to work, the rewards, the staff, everything about it is wonderful!”

When talking about Mrs. Douglas, the Columbia Elementary School principal Mrs. Wright, said “Wow!  She does it all.”  She went on to comment, “Connie greats each student every morning.”  Mrs. Wright talked about Connie’s way of encouraging students to read.  She said, “Connie makes reading fun by dressing up in costumes and decorating the library.  During March is Reading Month she dressed up like a pirate!”  Mrs. Wright went on to say that the theme for the special reading emphasis was “We Arr-gg Readers!”  It was a fun time for the students, because Mrs. Douglas decorated the library with items associated with pirates. 

Mrs. Douglas’ enthusiasm for reading helps to motivate the students.  She mentioned that during the year, she does a “Top Reader of the Month Award for two students and keeps track of the students with the most accelerated reader points on the Star Wall.”  She continued saying that, “The top 10 first graders and the top 10 second graders get their pictures on the Star Wall.”  She explained that, “This wall has students from as long ago as 2002, and our readers are excited to earn enough points to take someone’s place on the wall. This is a real accomplishment.” 

Mrs. Douglas has had various jobs for the Columbia School District, including being a one-on-one aide and assisting students in special education.  As part of her duties, Connie tracks student attendance and fills in for the school secretary during lunch time.  She is very creative and tries to make a difference for the children in Columbia.  In addition, Mrs. Douglas is very active in working with the staff to increase their level of fitness.  She does a special walking club called, “Move Your Butt” on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, that involves walking and exercising in the bus loop between the elementary buildings.

Mrs. Douglas gets involved with positivity at Columbia Elementary by encouraging students to work hard and be kind.  She helps award students for their behavior by assisting in the celebration for the Columbia Elementary School Student of the Month Award.  Mrs. Wright mentioned that additionally, Connie “gives out prizes every Friday to students who have been chosen for Mystery Behavior! “  Connie explained that, “This is a focused behavior on positive actions by the students.”  She mentioned that she also does the “Work Hard and Be Kind” student award each morning.  Connie said, “The students love receiving awards for positive behavior!”  Connie is a blessing to the children and staff at CES!  She is very deserving of her award for making a difference!   Learn more about Columbia School District at www.myeagles.org .