NRHEG grad becomes school's first male paraprofessional
BREAKING GROUND — Geoff Stiegelbauer, a 2005 graduate of NRHEG High School, is the school’s first ever male paraprofessional, preparing for a career as a teacher in the communications field. (Star Eagle photo by Jody Wynnemer)
By JODY WYNNEMER
Staff Writer
Working in a field which has been dominated by women for the past few years might seem a daunting task, but Geneva native Geoff Stieglbauer is up to the challenge. Stieglbauer was hired as a paraprofessional for the NRHEG School District at the high school in New Richland.
Paraprofessionals in the school classroom assist teachers by keeping order, helping students with their studies and assisting students with special needs. Stiegelbauer is the first male hired by the school district as a paraprofessional.
Stiegelbauer is not new to the local school system, having graduated from NRHEG in 2005. He went on to Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a minor in Business. His mother, Sue, teaches Special Education at NRHEG. Father George and brother Justin round out the clan. In his spare time, he enjoys working out at the local fitness center and playing video games.
“I started working out when I was in college two hours a night,” said Stiegelbauer. “I just sort of stuck with it.”
His future plan is to become a teacher in the communications field and thought this paraprofessional position would be beneficial.
“I wanted to get some classroom experience,” said Stiegelbauer. “Since I was a former student, I knew NRHEG is a great place. It’s small town nice.”
In the past few months, Stiegelbauer has integrated into the classroom environment helping students whenever he can.
“The one-on-one experience working with the kids is great,” said Stiegelbauer. “It’s the best part of the job. I have also been observing the other teachers and learning from them. I know most of the teachers from my school days. Each one of them uses a different teaching style and techniques which make them effective.”
With the upcoming summer vacation, Stiegelbauer has no plans for slowing down.
“I will be working part-time and plan on continuing my education,” said Stiegelbauer.
Paraprofessionals are a great asset to any classroom and school district by providing that extra attention to students which may be required in some cases. Whether it is on the playground, hallway or school cafeteria, the paraprofessionals at NRHEG are always there, carrying on the excellent in education for which the local school district is known.
