Governor’s Teacher Advisory Committee Profile: Denise McCoy

What made you decide to become a Parent Involvement Coordinator?
I became a Parent Involvement Coordinator to serve students/parents on the front end versus the back end. Education is my second career, law enforcement being my first. I am now armed with the necessary resources to empower parents to help them make their child successful.

What’s the most worthwhile part of being a Parent Involvement Coordinator
Being of a service and resource asset to my parents empowering them to maneuver through the education system and society in general. We learn from each other.

What can be done to better appreciate our educational support personnel?
I believe we can appreciate ESP’s, your bus drivers, nutrition, grounds, maintenance, clerical, support personnel, with acknowledging them as we do teachers. We are all in this together and the students are who we are here to serve. A Living wage increase, and on Nov. 17th each year Proclaim this day as “Education Support Professional Day” during American Education Week. We have Teacher Appreciation Week.

What’s one piece of advice you have for aspiring educator?
If your heart desires to become a Parent Involvement Coordinator or Support Personnel know that it has to be a calling, not seen as a job… I do this with a passion, joy, love, and a listening ear. Building relationships is the key. People do not remember what you say but how you make them feel.