Kelly Education is proud to celebrate the incredible impact of educators across the country through our Substitute Educator of the Year program. This recognition highlights educators who bring dedication, compassion, and energy into their roles every day—supporting students, strengthening classrooms, and uplifting entire school communities.
One of those standout educators is Keshaun Henry, our runner up in the paraeducator category. He works at Walter M. Schirra Elementary School in Old Bridge, New Jersey.
With a background in athletics, coaching, and youth mentorship, Keshaun brings a unique blend of leadership, positivity, and real-world experience into his work with students from kindergarten through fifth grade.
Keshaun: I’ve been working with kids for a long time, even before I got into schools. I’m from Woodbridge, New Jersey, and back in high school I was part of a program called STARS—Students Traveling Reaching Across Schools. We would go into middle schools and connect with different types of students, including some who needed extra support.
I was actually the only sophomore in a program meant for seniors, so that showed me early on that this was something I was meant to do.
I also played football and basketball in high school and went on to play college football at Wesley College, where I studied political science. Now, I’m also an assistant college football coach, so I’m constantly working with young people—whether it’s college athletes or elementary students.
Keshaun: I’ve always loved giving back and working with kids. Whether it was summer camps, sports camps, or coaching, I just enjoyed being around that energy.
When I got the opportunity to work in the school as a paraeducator, it felt natural. I don’t even look at it as a job—it feels like I’m helping out my younger siblings or my nieces and nephews.
Every day I come in, I just want to make a positive impact and help these kids grow, no matter what they’re going through.
Keshaun: First, you have to be loving and caring. That’s number one.
You also need patience—especially if you’re working with ABA students or if you’ve never been in a school setting before. It can be challenging at first, but you have to be willing to learn.
And most importantly, stay positive. I always say: control what you can control—your attitude and your effort. Even when things get tough, even when kids are having a hard day, your positive energy can make a huge difference.
Don’t match negative energy. Stay calm, be encouraging, and remember why you’re there—to help those kids grow.
Keshaun: I wake up every day with gratitude. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to go into the school and interact with these kids.
Throughout the day, I’m working with students across the entire school—from kindergarten to fifth grade, in music, gym, art, and technology. It’s constant interaction, constant teaching, and constant encouragement.
Some kids might be having a tough day, especially in ABA classrooms, but that’s where we step in—to support them, push them, and help them stay positive and finish what they’re working on.
Keshaun: Be yourself. Always be yourself.
And always put your best foot forward. Your attitude and your effort go a long way—even when it’s something you don’t want to do, like homework.
I didn’t always like homework either, but it helped me get to where I am today. So stay positive, keep working hard, and believe in yourself.
Keshaun: This role has opened my eyes to a whole new side of myself. It’s shown me how much I truly enjoy working in education.
I’m planning to go back to school, earn my master’s, and move into teaching. I want to keep growing and keep impacting kids’ lives every day.
“Keshaun Henry is a true representative of the high-quality educators Kelly Education provides to its partner schools each day,” says Nicola Soares, President of Kelly Education.
“He operates with high integrity and makes a clear difference in ensuring student success. We are proud to recognize his commitment with this honor.” As one of our Substitute Educator of the Year runners-up, Keshaun will receive a $1,000 bonus from Kelly Education, as well as $500 donated on his behalf to Walter M. Schirra Elementary School in Old Bridge, New Jersey.
Are you ready to make a difference? Complete our brief interest form, and one of our recruiters will share more about applying to be a paraeducator or substitute teacher. You can also learn more by reading our article about becoming a paraeducator.