BEATRICE – A woman who arrives at school at 6:45 a.m. and leaves at 4:30 p.m., riding a bus or driving a van of students, was honored Tuesday, in the Beatrice Public Schools.


Donna Arena was named the Zoellner Ford-Lincoln Paraeducator of the Year, during a ceremony at the Paddock Lane Elementary School gym, with students looking on.

Said Arena...."You fulfill my heart...even though I make you follow the rules...(laughter)...you all know that, I love you....thank you...(applause)".


The Zoellner family sponsors the annual award through the Beatrice Educational Foundation, with a one-thousand dollar check to the top paraeducator. Jason Zoellner says paraeducators play a very important role and use their talents to help students discover their own.


Arena has been a para for the past 17 years, often working with students one-on-one…and shows a willingness to help both students and staff. One nominator said Arena takes the time to understand the needs of every student. Another described her as essential to the school’s special education team.


Arena, who has given swimming lessons at the local YMCA to many school children, has also served for several years as the Manager of the Big Blue Water Park in Beatrice.