“Being a paraprofessional is fun– most days.”

Background

• Born in Miami, Florida
• Graduated from Starr’s Mill in 2007

Education

• Earned Bachelor’s in Science from West Alabama University

Responsibilities

• Provides a stable learning environment in the classroom
• Makes study guides to help students prepare for upcoming tests
• Coaches cross country

Starr’s Mill welcomes back a former student Austin Enriquez. Enriquez graduated from the Mill in 2007. After earning his degree from West Alabama University, he applied for science teaching positions but was assigned to be a parapro because there were not any available teaching slots.

“Before I had any intention at working at the Mill, I wanted to be a coast guard and before that a ranger,” Enriquez said. “I was going for the title Maritime Technical Serviceman in the Coast Guard, which keeps tabs on fisheries and has close ties with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. I wanted to be a park ranger so I could teach people the wonders of nature and how humans not only play an important role in preserving our environment but that we are a part of it as well.”

For now, Enriquez uses his skills to help and provide knowledge to students who might be in need of it. Enriquez said he was inspired to be a teacher because of his love for science, and he wanted to pass along that same love to other students.

“One of my hopes is not to sprout any more gray hairs,” Enriquez said. “The other is to make a lasting impression on my students and athletes. To make sure they know that in life you get out what you put in. All it takes is hard work and time.”