Students wandering the halls of North are likely to run into campus aide Shawanda Steed, clipboard in hand, as she makes her rounds through the building.
Known to students as “Ms. Shawanda,” Steed joined North’s campus aide staff two years ago and has become a familiar and recognizable presence in the hallways.
Some students expressed that they enjoy Steed’s friendly attitude and dedication. “She is very dedicated to her job and brings a lot of core values to the table,” said junior Taishon Mitchell-Reece.
At North, Steed said she spends her days greeting students and “floating” between floors to ensure students are where they are supposed to be. “My favorite part about this job is that I’m building relationships with students,” she said. “I get to know who’s having a good day, and when I’m sitting here at Tiger, I’m helping students study and seeing their progress.”
Other students, however, said Steed’s approach can be strict, but they understand her role. “Sometimes it’s irritating constantly being asked where you’re supposed to be when you’re walking in the hallway, even if you didn’t do anything wrong,” said junior June Chae.
Although this is her first time working as a campus aide, Steed has over 20 years of experience in human services and behavioral health. Before earning her degree in education at Massasoit Community College, she volunteered on a school board and worked with homeless youth and students on the autism spectrum.
According to Steed, her background in case work helps her connect with students on a personal level. “I’m not their counselor, but it’s great to help students and inspire them,” she said.
Students who have had frequent meetings with her, say Steed is notorious for confiscating phones from students using them in the hallways, and walking them back to class. Despite students’opinions, teachers have expressed appreciation for Steed’s work.
English teacher Janice Miller said she appreciates Steed’s consistent presence and positive attitude. “I had a study hall last year with students who liked to wander the halls, and she was terrific because she would smile and talk to them and redirect them back to the study hall,” Miller said. “She’s very open and personable, but she is also very no-nonsense, and I think she’s doing a great job.”
In her two years at North, Steed said she values the sense of community that has come with her position. “It’s nice to work with young adults again,” she said. “I’ve worked with many different populations, but this one really lets me use all my skills.”
