The 2025-2026 ASFL Elementary Staff Member of the Year is Ms. Xanthia Elmore! Ms. Elmore, more affectionally knowns as Ms. E., serves as the sole paraprofessional in our collaborative department where she works with students K-5th grade. She joined the ASFL family in the fall of 2022, making this her 4th school year with us. Previously, she worked at the Academy for Academics and Arts for 9 years as a permanent substitute, and at in the office and as an ILC teacher at Challenger. While at Challenger, she was also the only staff member trained in S.P.I.R.E.
Ms. E became interested in working with children when her son began kindergarten. Her specific interest in working in special education grew from her firsthand experience navigating and supporting individualized educational support. She says this deepened her commitment to inclusive and student-centered instruction. She says that her favorite part of this job is working with the students and the staff. She says, "Both have taught me a lot about myself. I've learned patience, compassion, and understanding. I always keep in mind that when dealing with children, I have shoes older than most of them. It helps keep things in perspective. They are still learning, and it's something that takes time. Working with amazing teachers allows me to learn something new each day. I feel truly blessed to be able to do what I do, and I am grateful every day for the opportunity." We feel the same way about you, Ms. E! Congratulations, and thank you for all you do for our students and our school.