By Liz Guzman, Panther Press Reporter
This month's staff member of the month is Dortha Higgins, library aid and former Pre-K and Head Start Teacher.
How long have you been working here at Collinsville, and were there any other places you’ve worked?
Ms. Dortha: I have been here at Collinsville 3 years for pre-k and 2 years for library aid. I also have 10 years of head start and 6 of those years were spent in Collinsville.
Did you ever consider going back teaching pre k again?
Ms. Dortha: I would love to be able to hold out for pre-k again. That's my favorite age of kids. But I’m getting so old so no.
What are some your favorite things about working here at Collinsville?
Ms. Dortha: I would say the kids, they’re my favorite. Besides that, I just love all the teachers and how everybody gets along here.
What is your favorite part about your job?
Ms. Dortha: Getting to see all the kids, they all come to me at some time during the week and I get to see the kids that were in my pre-k classes.
Are there any difficult challenges that you face?
Ms. Dortha: I would say the only difficulties would be being able to speak Spanish to the children who do speak Spanish. I don’t know a lot of Spanish but I find a way to communicate with them.
What is the most rewarding part about your job
Ms. Dortha: seeing the kids faces light up when they see me
What are some of your favorite foods?
Ms. Dortha: I would say my favorite food would be ice cream and I really like a good steak and potato salad.
What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not working?
Ms. Dortha: Being with my family, taking care of my grandkids, church activities, and singing.
Do you have any favorite tv shows or movies you might like?
Ms. Dortha: I like all the Christmas movies, and I love to watch The Voice
What is something other faculty members might be surprised to know about you?
Ms. Dortha: I’m pretty much an open book, but some might not know that I’m a great great grandmother
What is something you want to say to your senior kids that you had in head start who are graduating this year?
Ms. Dortha: I had some of the best memories of all of them and will never forget them as long as I live. Once you’re my kid you’re my kid for life. I am very proud of them and how far they’ve come.
(Pictured right: Ms. Dortha and two seniors, Andres Garcia and Liz Guzman, who were both in Ms. Dortha's Pre-K class several years ago.)