After working in public education for many years, Mrs. Christine Mallimo-Orna said she felt it was time for a change and accepted a position as a paraprofessional at Calais in 2019.

“I came to Calais because I was interested in transitioning from a general education teacher to a special education teacher,” she said.

Mrs. Mallimo-Orna was looking for a position where she could really make a difference in the lives of the students she worked with. “I wanted the experience as I am working towards my graduate degree,” she said. “I love working at Calais- it is so rewarding watching the students succeed.”

Now with close to 20 years in education, Mrs. Mallimo-Orna has found her true calling after recently becoming a special education teacher in the lower school. “I love how we are not only stressing the academics but life skills as well,” she said. “The staff at Calais is all so caring and we all work together to give these kids a foundation for the future. When I see a student get something that we worked so hard to achieve, and we cheer and celebrate the small moment, I know I made the right decision in my career!”

The 2020/2021 School Year marks Calais’ 50th year serving students with special needs! The Calais Foundation & The Calais School thanks students, parents, staff & faculty, and friends of Calais for playing an integral role in our past, present and future. The #MyCalaisStory campaign was created as a platform to share stories and build a deeper connection among our community members. If you would like to share your story, please contact Ashley Soleau at ashley.soleau@thecalaischool.org or Allison Freeman at allison.freeman@thecalaisschool.org.

#mycalaisstory @calaisfoundation  #specialeducation #exceedyourpossibilities #trailblazer

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