LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Suzanne Barros was nominated by her principal, Debra Vereen.

Ms. Barros is the consummate perfectionist. She prides herself on having a perfect audit every year. She is very knowledgeable in her role as the school bookkeeper. For anything that she does not know, she knows who to ask and is always willing and ready to learn.

Ms. Barros is the model of a learner for life. As her school’s primary purchaser, she makes sure that any necessary supplies are purchased and ordered. She even goes the extra mile to pick up supplies that are needed in a pinch or that cannot be delivered. Ms. Barros is always suggesting ideas to save or spend money in ways that benefit students.

In addition to her responsibilities as a secretary and bookkeeper, she volunteers in other areas around the school without hesitation. During breakfast, she can be found in the cafeteria assisting students as they empty their trays. She greets every student and wishes them a great day before sending them off to class. She also volunteers to assist if the staff is shorthanded during lunch.

When she receives a call from a classroom that a teacher needs an emergency break, Ms. Barros does not hesitate to stand in.  She also responds when there is a call regarding student behavioral support. There is no area or task that Ms. Barros believes is outside of her scope of work. She prides herself on building and maintaining strong relationships with both students and teachers.

"Sue is very supportive of both students and staff, and a good friend to anyone in need. She is a positive force within our school community," Vereen said.