MaryAnn Sciame
Jennifer Mitchell
Today we celebrate the wonderful contributions of Administrative Professionals while also highlighting stories of connection and growth during World Autism Acceptance Month (WAAM). We are proud to feature two Administrative Professionals, MaryAnn Sciame and Jennifer Mitchell, who support students in every aspect of their daily experience at the School at Springbrook.
Administrative Professionals Day is a moment to recognize the people who keep a school running smoothly, but at The School at Springbrook, their impact goes far beyond schedules, phones, and paperwork. MaryAnn Sciame and Jennifer Mitchell are two of those steady, essential presences who help create a place where students feel seen, supported, and welcomed every day.
For MaryAnn Sciame, the day begins before students even arrive, with voicemails, scheduling staff, coordinating transportation, and preparing for the many moving parts of the school day. Once students enter the building, the front office becomes a constant flow of activity, from phone calls and maintenance requests to visitors and daily needs. But amid the busyness, the most meaningful moments are the human ones. A wave in the hallway, a student stopping by the desk to complete a goal, or a simple hello that turns into a familiar connection.
MaryAnn shared one especially meaningful experience with a student who was working toward using his voice to communicate with staff beyond his classroom. What began as a simple greeting eventually grew into full conversations about his day and weekend. Watching that growth and knowing she was part of his journey is something she carries with deep pride.
For Jennifer Mitchell, the role is also centered on support, flexibility, and connection. Her days are filled with shifting priorities and behind-the-scenes coordination, but she is intentional about making every student interaction count. Whether it is a good morning greeting, a wave, or a calm reassuring presence during a tough moment, she focuses on helping students feel safe and recognized.
Over time, those small daily interactions build trust. Jennifer has seen students grow from one-word greetings to full exchanges like “good morning,” “have a good weekend,” and even saying her name. These moments, while simple on the surface, reflect meaningful progress in communication, confidence, and belonging.
Both MaryAnn and Jennifer describe inclusion not as a single initiative, but as something lived out every day. It shows up in patience, consistency, adaptability, and the commitment to meeting each student where they are. It is present in greetings at the front desk, in moments of encouragement, and in the shared celebration of every step forward, no matter how small.
Their work is a reminder that administrative professionals are not just keeping things organized. They are helping build the foundation of connection, trust, and belonging that supports every student experience.