Paraprofessional Cindy Isenberg will retire at the end of this school year, concluding a 23-year career at Tyrone Area School District, during which she served in many roles at all three TASD school buildings.
Isenberg began her career as a kindergarten paraprofessional, then moved to the high school as a personal aide for a student with disabilities.
After that student graduated, she moved to the middle school, where she worked with special education students in fifth, sixth, and seventh grades.
Tyrone Area School District Special Education Director Jessica Anderson said Isenberg was one of the first paraprofessionals she worked with as a special education teacher.
“Although her roles have changed over the years, Mrs. Isenberg has remained committed to students,” Anderson said. “She worked one-on-one and with small groups in inclusive settings. She demonstrated flexibility and anticipated the needs of students and staff. She was consistent and held students accountable.”
After several years at the middle school, Isenberg returned to the high school to work with older students.
Social studies teacher Todd Cammarata enjoyed his time working with Isenberg in his civics classes.
“She always helped keep her students organized and on track and would guide them whenever they needed it, but she also held them accountable and wouldn’t do things for them that they could do themselves,” Cammarata said. “She always struck the right balance.”
When the study hall monitor and library aide position became available about four years ago, Isenberg moved into that role, where most current high school students have come to know her.
Senior Cadence Ball has had study hall with Isenberg all year and appreciates the way she interacts with students.
“I like how Mrs. Isenberg treats the students in study hall with kindness and respect and gives them the freedom to do what they need to do,” Ball said.
Many teachers and students expressed their appreciation for Isenberg’s dedication and kindness over the years.
“Mrs. Isenberg will be greatly missed. I really enjoyed our conversations over the past couple of years during my first-period study hall in the library. She even taught me how to sign out books for the students,” physical education teacher Thomas Coleman said.
Through her multiple roles at every level of the district, Isenberg has seen education from many different perspectives and has enjoyed her time in the district.
“I have always loved the community and atmosphere of the district. The staff has always worked together for the best of our students. I will miss working daily with the staff and students,” Isenberg said.
Her most rewarding experiences have been helping students and seeing them succeed.
“My favorite moments were when students finally understood a concept after struggling with it for a long time,” Isenberg said. “It’s a great feeling to see a struggling student succeed, even if it was only one task.”
Students and staff appreciate everything Isenberg has done for the Tyrone community. Her presence in the library and study hall will be greatly missed, and she will not be easy to replace.
As she looks ahead to retirement, Isenberg is excited for the opportunity to relax and explore her interests.
Isenberg said she plans to spend more time traveling, camping, and serving as a campground host at state parks. She also looks forward to having extra time at home to tend to her flower gardens and complete projects around the house.
Most importantly, she looks forward to visiting with friends and family.
Isenberg said she would like to share one final message with Tyrone students:
“Be safe, don’t be afraid to ask for help, make smart choices, and most importantly, reach for the stars and follow your dreams,” Isenberg said.
