Retired teacher makes a comeback as a substitute
Clara Paris, one of the more than 2,000 Dallas ISD substitutes, first filled in for a teacher at Sunset High School years ago and has since been providing support for students who are taking dual credit college courses at the campus.
“She goes above and beyond by forming relationships with the students and providing equal amounts of support and challenge as the students complete the college courses,” said Creesha Anthony Hardee, a Sunset counselor. “She’s typically one of the first people in the building, offering smiles and positivity to all who enter our building!”
Paris, who has been a substitute with Dallas ISD since 2013, was nominated by her Sunset High School colleagues as part of a recognition by the Human Capital Management Substitutes Office. She and dozens of others were praised for all they do for district students as part of National Substitute Day Friday, Nov. 22, during American Education Week.
“Let me tell you there is no one whose smile and demeanor add more to our lovely hall than Ms. Paris’; she is always so kind and helpful,” said teacher Ryan McKelvy-Gonzales. “She is a retired teacher, but I’m so glad she came back to work with us like she does. She is one of our long-term subs and works with our P-TECH students to make sure they do what they need to do in their college classes. Ms. Paris knows how to hold them accountable and make sure they’re doing what they need to do. She is one of the hardest working ladies in education and I don’t know what we would do without her.”
Paris worked as a teacher for 38 years, 22 of those at Dallas ISD, but she said she has been a teacher since she was about 9 years old, and she would play school. Her inspiration to become a teacher came from her older sisters and from her mom who was a Sunday school teacher. After retiring to care for her husband who was ailing, she realized that she missed being a teacher. A few months after her retirement, she came back as a substitute and eventually ended up at Sunset High School where she has been for more than 10 years as a facilitator for college classes.
“She is very important to our team,” said teacher assistant Crystal Vergara. “She has been a sub since I was a student at Sunset. The fact that she has stayed with us for that many years means a lot to us. She is very kind, patient and always willing to help with anything.”
Other nominated substitutes
Anabel Gonzalez
“She is a true Wildcat (Arcadia Park Elementary School), with true pride in her work, when it comes to being inside the classrooms. Anabel, simply, enjoys subbing for our kids, and is open to learning.”
“Ms. Criner is simply amazing. She has been substituting at New Tech [High School at B.F. Darrell] while we search for a new AP teacher. She has come in and saved the day by lightening the load assisting with ARDS, discipline, parent meetings, teacher supports, observations and feedback. You would think this is her campus because she has become an integral part of the campus and is a part of our culture. She brings joy, wisdom, and positive energy into the space. The students and staff love her! I wish I had a position for her so I could keep her when my AP position is filled.”
