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Staff member of the month: Darlene Clifford
Jeremy Tepper
Staff member of the month: Darlene Clifford

For over 20 years, Darlene Clifford has dedicated her life to education.

She started off working for the Clairton Family Center, and then eventually the Clairton City School District as a paraprofessional for nearly 20 years, before taking the same position at the Duquesne City School District. 

Now in her 6th year in the district, Clifford has long exemplified what it means to be a great paraprofessional, approaching every day with a positive, caring attitude, and a willingness to help out wherever she can.

It’s no surprise, then, that Clifford was voted by her peers as September’s staff member of the month.

"She puts the needs of our students first,” said one coworker. “She always has a smile on her face” and is “always willing to help,” said two other coworkers.

Clifford’s start in education was fueled by simple reasoning: she loves children, learning, and seeing students grow. That devotion is evident in the way she approaches every day of work. 

“It really is a rewarding opportunity to see kids grow. I’ve seen so many students over the years graduate and go to college and become parents, and then get married, have kids, and I had their kids in school,” said Clifford.

“I’ve always loved education, and I have a heart and a genuine passion for kids and learning and seeing them excel.” 

While Clifford’s classroom(s) might change from year to year — this year she’s working with Ms. Moore’s K-2 students — she never stays solely dedicated to her assignment. Instead, Clifford looks to help out wherever she can, always lending a helping hand to whoever needs it.

“I consider myself a floater of sorts — wherever you need me, I’m there to help,” said Clifford. “Wherever I see that there’s a gap or help needed, I’ll definitely extend a helping hand. That’s what I’m here for, to be a help and to be a bridge. I love what I do. I really do have a passion for it.”