Panther Professionals

     Panther Professionals is a weekly series highlighting educators, administrators, staff and aides who are dedicated to the future of the Monticello Community School District.

     In order for Panther Academy to run smooth, several associates are needed.

     Cassie Covington of Anamosa has been working for the Monticello School district since 2010. She started out as a substitute teacher at Shannon and Carpenter elementary schools. She also worked in subbing at Sacred Heart as well.

     “I worked it out in my schedule then to do both,” she said of both schools in Monticello.

     With substitute teaching more of a part-time job, Covington’s friend, Brittney Boysen, told her about an opening with Panther Academy.

     “It’s now affiliated under the (Monticello) school district,” explained Covington. “It used to be under Kids Quest in Anamosa.” Covington said bringing the program under the MCSD was a change for the better.

     “I just love it here,” she said.

     Panther Academy serves children before and after school, as well as on days there is no school. They’re also in operation throughout the summer.

     “Parents send kids here for various reasons,” said Covington. “Some come here for the interaction and group setting, being around different ages of kids.”

     Covington said she always thought she’d work in a daycare center or being a childcare provider herself.

     “It’s something I always wanted to do,” she said. Working at Panther Academy allows her to pretty much do just that.

     Panther Academy is set up in the gymnasium at Shannon Elementary, Covington said she helps serve snacks to the kids, assists in craft projects, plays with the kids outside, interacts with the kids, and provides one-on-one attention at times to those who need some extra devotion.

     “I observe them at play, and watch certain kids if they’ve had a tough day in school,” she explained.

     The crafts and learning activities allow the kids to continue their education before and after school.

     “We help them learn how to problem solve versus asking us (the associates) do it for them,” added Covington.

     She said the kids love it when they get to go on field trips rather than just staying inside all day, especially when there is no school.

     With three associates at Panther Academy, Covington said they share shifts during the week, with some coming in early in the morning, and others staying later in the day until parents are arrive to pick their child up.

     “I also normally try to be available during the winter,” offered Covington. “Or if Tammy (Helgens, Panther Academy director) is sick, I can work late.”

     She said the number of associates needed depends on how many kids are in session that day.

     “Our numbers vary from around 20-some kids on down,” she said. “We’ve had up to 40 kids once.”

     Covington is a 2007 graduate of Monticello High School. She said it’s surreal to find yourself back, working in your old school district, after graduation.

     “It’s so different coming in as a member of the staff,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much everyone does here until I was in their shoes.”

     Covington maintains six hours of continuing education classes every year. She said it’s helpful to take them online or through Jones County Extension.

     “I always thought when I was done with school, I’d be done learning,” explained Covington. “But with this job, I keep learning.”

     She said Helgens is always finding fun and unique ways to make the job easier, to make the projects and learning activities fun and engaging for everyone.

     “Tammy has been amazing,” praised Covington.

     Covington said she enjoys the aspect of her job that allows her to be a positive role model/influence on the kids.

     “We tell them to make good choices, and are here when they need someone to talk to,” she said.

     She said when playing on the floor or outside with the kids, Covington feels like a kid herself.

     “It puts a smile on my face,” she said.

     In her spare time, Covington likes to go to the movies and spend time with family. Working at Panther Academy, where her cousins’ children attend, she’s also able to see them on a regular basis.