Some people discover their calling early—and for one young woman working in our schools, what began as a part-time role quickly grew into a lifelong passion for education.

Dreshianna Bishop first stepped into the Champaign Unit 4 school district in 2019, working in the Kids Plus After-School Program at Carrie Busey Elementary. Encouraged by her mom, who had once worked in the same program before facing a cancer diagnosis, she applied—and almost instantly fell in love with the job. “Ever since then, I’ve been in love with my job and kept wanting to do more,” she shared.

And more is exactly what she did.

By the 2022-23 school year, she had added lunch recess supervision to her plate, still serving at Carrie Busey. The following year brought a major leap—she became a teacher’s aide in the ED self-contained classroom, while continuing her role in Kids Plus after school. “I can’t bring myself to leave,” she says. “I love the job and I love the kids. I’ve built so many relationships and, not to brag, but a great reputation for myself and for the program.” (We think she SHOULD brag which is why we are writing this article about her!) 

Finding Encouragement and Embracing New Roles

A major turning point came when Carrie Busey’s former principal, Mr. Craig Keer, personally encouraged her to consider applying for the teacher’s aide position. Repeated conversations with both him and another staff member, Ms. Tomeka Turner, made her feel seen and capable. “They both thought I’d be a great fit—and that kind of belief in me made a huge difference.”

At the same time, families involved in Kids Plus were also noticing her impact. “I started getting more and more positive feedback. Parents thanked me, praised me for helping their children, and even told me they’d switch programs if I wasn’t coming back. Even if they were joking—it meant so much to hear that I was making a difference.”

Growing Through Opportunity and Support

Throughout her journey, Kids Plus has been a foundational piece of her growth. “If it wasn’t for that opportunity, I don’t know if I would’ve found my passion for working with kids,” she reflects.

The leadership roles she took on during school breaks and summer camps allowed her to develop both personally and professionally. “I picked up new skills and strengthened existing ones. The experiences helped me evolve into a stronger leader and educator.”

She also gives special thanks to Terese Fairfield who, along with Tomeka Turner, welcomed her onto their team and became mentors. “They saw something in me. They gave me the tools and guidance I needed, and helped build the confidence I carry with me today. I still have a lot of room to grow—but they’re a big reason I’m where I am.”

Words of Wisdom for Others Starting Out

For anyone in a part-time education role who’s thinking about taking the next step, Drea’s advice is simple: go for it. “You never know if you’ll love it or be good at it unless you try. It’s scary to take the leap—but there’s nothing to it but to do it!”

And if one position doesn’t feel right? “Try another. There are so many roles within education. You just have to find the right fit for you.”

A Newfound Perspective—and a Lasting Impact

As she’s stepped into new positions, her understanding of education has deepened. “I’ve always respected teachers—but now that I’ve been in classrooms and worked directly with students, that respect has grown even more.”

She admits that the work isn’t always easy. “I’ve seen and experienced things that could make someone want to walk away. But then I see the difference I’m making—teaching a student to read their name, tie their shoes, write for the first time—and I know it’s all worth it.”

That sense of purpose is what keeps her going: “Knowing I’m helping shape a child’s life? That’s what motivates me every single day.”