Olathe Northwest para Jonathan Stahl works day in and day out with some of the most inspiring individuals this school has to offer. He spoke on how his love and passion is what creates the immeasurable experience.
~Written by: Tyler Soetaert
When you accepted this job, what did you expect?
When I accepted this job, I had no idea what to expect. I tutored students with autism in college and I loved it but I didn't know what that looked like in a school setting so to come back here, I was unsure of what to expect but just fell in love.
Obviously working with the same people day in and day out can be frustrating and not always exciting, but you've seem to love it. Why do you love this job?
These kids are so inspiring and I love being around teenagers all day as well. I also work with them outside school so it can basically be a full time job.
Why did you accept this job?
I originally thought about working in a college setting but since I love working with teenagers, I knew coming here would be what I wanted.
What do you love about these special education students and why?
They are just so inspiring, you would think they have more difficulties than we do but they enjoy life so much and they're hilarious...They're just so much fun.
What has this job taught you?
It has taught me a lot of patience and to have a good attitude because things won't always go your way. I truly believe that this job is also about them teaching me and the life lessons learned are something you don't get anywhere.
How did you get this job?
I work with special needs kids in my church and a lady I work with brought up the idea. Eventually I applied and was interviewed by Greg Smith where he asked about my vision and what I was all about.
What advice to you have for aspiring paras?
First, you have to love teens or else you're not going to make it. You have to laugh at yourself and take the ups and downs as they come.
What sort of patience does this require?
It requires a certain amount but you have to love these kids and take anything that comes at you.
Working with Jack all the time, as well as Robbie, what have they taught you and how have they impacted you?
They are both incredible. Robbie never is sad, only tired a lot and he always brightens my day. Jack is incredible, he is inspiring and encouraging about everything. He's funny and crazy intelligent and he's awesome to be around. He comes into every class and people are excited to see him, so it's cool to be able to bring that into a room.
Any additional comments?
Love what you do and do what you love, especially in this job haha...
I really love your writing style.The subscript you wrote in the beginning, in my assumption, took a lot of thought. The character you chose to do a Q&A with is so normal but unique in the same sense. It's really easy to tell that he loves his job because of the way he talks about his kids. He mentions how his job requires a good attitude and it seems he has just that, because of his positivity towards his fellow peers.
ReplyDeleteYou, Tyler Soetaert, did an exceptional job with capturing Jonathan's love for his job. You received an answer from him about his kids having a good point of view through life, and I feel like he had to be really comfortable telling you that. You must of seemed really personable and easy to talk to. That's one of the main qualities in becoming a journalist. Fantastic job!
Honestly, I wouldn't change anything about this Q&A except for a few typos. There are a few apostrophies you need to include and that's about it. Just cross a few T's and dot a few I's and you're on your way to greatness.
Thanks for a great viewing to my comprehension! This was very touching. Glad to see the good in the world.
Sincerely,
Quen Barkyoumb