INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Devora Roman, Spring Lake Elementary

Devora Roman is an English Language Learners paraprofessional at Spring Lake Elementary School. She provides direct instructional support to students by helping them learn English and academic content. She assists students with classroom assignments. She works in small groups for intervention to improve students’ reading and writing. She also assists and administers tests and assessments to ELL students. Roman was nominated as Support Person of the Year in the 2005-2006 school year as well as the 2025-2026 school year. 

What brought you to your school?

After working for 16 years in another school, my position  closed, and it just happened that a position opened at SLE, and I was the blessed one to get it.

What do you love most about your school?

What I love most about working at SLE are the children and the community. They are beautiful and respectful people, very hard-working with a desire to excel.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is to see my students achieve their goals and be part of it. When I see them growing and succeed, it makes me feel rewarded for the effort.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I would be a counselor, because I love to be able to help people who are going through difficult situations. I like to encourage and give hope to those who need it.

Who influences you?

I have to say with all my heart that Jesus is the one who influences me. Everything I am, what I know, what I do, have been taught to me by Him.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

My favorite teacher was my reading teacher, Ms. Hernandez. She was a beautiful person with a joyful heart. She always has a positive and encouraging word for her students. 

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

One of my favorite books is “Charlotte’s Web.” This story was a part of my childhood. It’s a beautiful story about friendship, loyalty and the power of words.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I like to read inspirational books and take care of my garden. That gives me peace and joy.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

If I could dine with a famous person, I’d choose Martin Luther King Jr. He was a brave, smart man with a strong soul who inspired many to fight for what is right.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could have a superpower, it would be empathic healing: a power where you can sense, feel, alleviate another’s emotional pain, burden or mental well-being. I would love to be able to heal emotional wounds.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

If I could listen to three special bands or artists, that would be the Gospel singers Cece Winans, Megan Woods and Juan Luis Guerra. These Gospel singers inspire me with their passion to bring a message of hope and love with their music.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

I studied in Puerto Rico, and during our lunch break, we could go to small stores near the school and buy delicious snacks like shaved ice, pastries, potato fillings and different Spanish snacks.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Christmastime, because I can spend more time with my family and friends and go to Puerto Rico.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

My best friend at school was Janice del Valle. We were in the same class in every grade from kindergarten to sixth grade. We are friends on Facebook.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

My extracurricular activities as a student were dance and drama.