The Work No One Sees: The Reality of Classified Staff With Tracy Scott

Shannon welcomes Tracy Scott, a second-grade instructional assistant with 23 years of experience in Jefferson County Public Schools, to discuss the often-overlooked role of classified school staff. Tracy shares what instructional assistants actually do—far beyond the common misconception of just "taking kids to the bathroom"—including leading intervention groups, providing emotional support, managing behavior, and building lasting relationships with students.

Key topics include the persistent class divide between certified teachers and assistants, how assistants are frequently given the most challenging students and behavior situations without recognition, and the need for mutual respect within school communities. Tracy emphasizes that kids primarily need love, attention, and "their person" to confide in—something she's provided for two decades, maintaining relationships with former students well into their twenties.

Links:
Putman XR Consulting
LinkedIn: Shannon Putman