Getting to know … Diane Frascone
Tell me about your job. Why do you love what you do?
My days are packed with activities and responsibilities … focused on supporting our students’ growth. I work individually with students who need extra support, helping them tackle challenges and celebrating their progress. I follow our homeroom students to their specials, staying closely involved and reporting back to the homeroom teacher so we can maintain a cohesive approach to their learning.
Part of my role includes maintaining behavior modification sheets, which helps us monitor and address any issues that arise outside of homeroom. I always find ways to bring fun into the day and make sure students feel proud of their achievements. It’s this combination of guidance, support and encouragement that makes me love what I do. Each day I get to see my students’ growth and resilience firsthand.
Why do you think it’s important to be involved in the union?
Taking an active role allows me to advocate for positive changes that directly benefit our team. Last year, our efforts led to a successful contract negotiation that brought real improvements — increasing pay, reducing insurance contributions, and securing a retirement incentive alongside other key contractual benefits. Being part of the union has given me a meaningful platform to drive these positive changes for all of us.
How do you make a difference?
I make a difference by building trust and relationships with the students and by demonstrating that I care. I will always be their go-to person and a positive role model in their lives. The children I work with know that I will do anything to get them to the right answer, but I will not give it directly to them. The main thing is to watch them succeed. (Knowing) that I had a part in their success … always makes me smile.
Do you have hobbies? Community engagement?
I love spending time with my three grandchildren. Going to their soccer games, cheering at dance recitals and creating fun memories together are incredibly important to me. These moments keep me grounded and bring so much joy into my life.
I’m also deeply thankful for the commitment of our union, and I’m proud to lead and serve alongside my fellow members, both in our shared goals at work and within our wider community.