How One Lunch Aide Is Transforming Recess At Wrightstown Elementary

Newtown, PA — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully, Newtown is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Kate D'Auria, who nominated Mary Ellen Galley of Wrightstown elementary.

What is the school hero’s name?

Mary Ellen Galley

Where does this school hero work?

Wrightstown elementary

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

Mary Ellen works as a cafeteria and recess aide, on often overlooked and undervalued role. she puts a lot of energy into making a positive impact in this role with music, games, decoration contests for holidays and school plays, trivia, singing (Fly Eagles Fly is a favorite!) SHe has advocated for better equipment at recess including pickleball and she builds relationships with the studnets to make this part of the day positive for each student.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

She is a freind and I am also an educator so we talk a lot about the importance of makign lunch and recess a positive time of the day.

What should your community know about this person?

Mary Ellen brings enthusiasm and positive energy to her role as a recess and lunch aide at Wrightstown Elementary. This is an often overlooked role that has a huge impact on every child in a school every day. Mary Ellen puts time and effort into planning events like Connect Four tournaments, decorating contests where lunch tables collaborate to create decorations celebrating holidays or school events like a play. The whole school votes, and winners enjoy ice cream sundaes, but every child gets a treat. Mary Ellen has advocated for playground equipment like a pickleball set as well as scouring thrift stores for games to use at indoor recess. Mary Ellen understands that, although schools and parents don't often think about it, every child experiences lunch and recess every day and this time can have a positive or negative impact on their day and their overall school experience. She invests her own time and energy - and funds, despite the low salary- in providing materials and events to engage children to connect with each other and the school.

What three words best describe the school hero?

Enthusiastic, invested, positive energy

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

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