From left to right, Michelle Trussalo (Ring), Leah Hayes (Lincoln), Patrick Langworthy (Love), Jay Grann (Bush), and Chris Collins (Fletcher, each were appointed to “teacher on special assignment” position earlier this year aimed at supporting Jamestown Public Schools elementary schools in creating a safe and supportive learning environment for students and staff.

Jamestown Public Schools families have likely seen a few familiar faces in new roles at the district’s five elementary schools this year.

Earlier this school year, five teachers on special assignment – known as “TOSAs” for short – were assigned to support each JPS elementary school building in a position aimed at creating a safe and supportive learning environment for students and staff.

“These five teachers are some of the best professionals our district has to offer,” said Tina Sandstrom, Chief Director of Schools. “Already, they have made such a tremendous impact on our buildings and our students. I cannot wait to see what they continue to do throughout the rest of the school year.”

These new roles have allowed teachers to see their building through a completely different lens, said Michelle Trussalo, who holds the position at Ring School after spending eight years as a special education teacher.

“At Ring, we’ve always valued educating the whole child and strived to meet the individual needs of every student within a positive and safe learning environment,” Trussalo said. “This role has brought a new perspective to the operations and daily management needs outside of the classroom. And while there are many moving parts to learn, I am fortunate to work with an incredible and supportive school community.”

The TOSAs also are working to aid specific building initiatives, like attendance, behavior, and core academics, by serving as an additional resource for students, staff, and families.

“Not only has it been a pleasure to help students with academic support and positive behavioral interventions, but I really have enjoyed helping and supporting the work of my colleagues through the strong systems we have in place here at Lincoln,” said Leah Hayes, who holds the same role at Lincoln School.

“These positions have allowed us to be more proactive,” added Patrick Langworthy, who holds the same role at Love School. “It’s been incredible to collaborate with parents, teachers, administrators, and service providers in tying in all of the support that we have available and allowing us to do what’s best for our students, staff, and families.”

Jay Grann, who now serves Bush School in this position after teaching physical education the last 19 years, said his new role has allowed him “to build relationships that otherwise wouldn’t be possible.”

“It’s also pretty cool to see how the whole building works together for student achievement,” he said. “My hope is that we continue to win the small battles each day so that at the end of the year, students can be proud of all their accomplishments.”

Chris Collins, who holds the position at Fletcher Elementary School, agreed.

“I’ve enjoyed being part of a wider scaled network of staff and students in regard to problem solving,” said Collins. “A team effort reaches into many facets of the school day and, due to these efforts, many connections and supports are made in a positive way.”

And in creative ways.

For Fletcher’s first PBIS assembly in three years, Collins donned a wrestling outfit and gave out a “belt of responsibility” to a fourth grade class. Langworthy, meanwhile, was a major part of a Halloween-themed performance of “Thriller” for Love students.

“I hope to continue to support building positive relationships with students, staff and families within our school community and I hope that my efforts will help students and staff to be successful in both their daily and yearly endeavors,” Collins added.

“This role has allowed me to really learn and grow as an educator,’ said Langworthy. “I’m grateful for the different perspective and the collaboration with the school counselors, the teachers, and the parents.”

Hayes, meanwhile, can see the positive impact the position has had through the smiles on students’ faces as they walk into school each morning.

“We are seeing students learn and shine each and every day here at Lincoln,” she said. “Students are always giving me a smile or a thumbs up in the hall to let me know they are having a good day. I am so proud to be a part of an amazing school.”