Bonnie McLearen


Bonnie McLearen retired as a DCD Paraprofessional
at Rockford Elementary Arts Magnet School

She retired spring, 2015


1) Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Southeast Minneapolis.

2) What High School did you graduate from?
I graduated from Marshall High School, in Dinkytown.

3) Where did you go to college or get training?
All of my training for special ed began as on-the-job training. There were many workshops and classes over the years.

4) Family
I moved out to this area when I got married. We moved into Rockford when my sons were still quite young. Both of them went through Rockford Schools, graduating in the 90’s. I have two granddaughters, one of whom is also a Rockford graduate from 2012, and is finishing up her second year at Winona State. The other one is finishing up 5th grade in Buffalo.

5) How many years have you been a para?
I started as a behavioral support in the elementary. I did that for more than 20 years. Becoming a DCD para was something totally new to me. You are an academic support between the student and the classroom teacher, as well as physical, and verbal support when needed. I came to realize you’re never too old to learn.

6) How many years have you been employed by Rockford Area Schools?
A friend told me about jobs with the school. So I started out subbing mainly in the kitchen. One day a call came saying temporary support for a student with behavioral needs, was needed and was I interested? Once that position was over, I realized that I did enjoy that work. Over the summer the principal called telling me that student was back, a teacher had been hired and was I interested in working as a program assistant. That was the beginning of 27 years of working in Rockford schools. Though technically I was hired by MAWSECO, I considered myself a Rockford staff member.

7) Family
I moved out to this area when I got married. We moved into Rockford when my sons were still quite young. Both of them went through Rockford Schools, graduating in the 90’s. I have two granddaughters, one of whom is also a Rockford graduate from 2012, and is finishing up her second year at Winona State. The other one is finishing up 5th grade in Buffalo.

8) What do you look most forward to everyday at Rockford?
The friendships I have made through the years mean everything to me. This is a second family to me. They’ve been there through the good and not so good times, and I will miss them greatly. I plan to join the group of volunteers who still come into the schools. I’m not ready to give up my contact with the kids as yet.

9) What is one of your most memorable moments in your career?
One of my most heartfelt memories comes from three years of working with a student who had significant behaviors. At some point, other placement was made. Then just a few years ago, when I lost my husband, that student sent me a card. It was such an overwhelming feeling to know that I made a difference in that life, evidenced by that card. Today when I see that person, there is still always a greeting for me. Our connection remains.

10) What are your plans when you retire?
I’m not really sure what I will do with my time. I will continue working with River Days, something I have done for maybe 20 years. I am planning a “Retirement” trip to the east coast in October. It’s always been my dream to see New England in the Fall. I have been assured by many that I will keep busy. Many have said they don’t know how they had time to have a job!

It is bittersweet to be leaving. I will not say good-bye, only “see you later” because I plan to return!