INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Rita Grajales, Keene’s Crossing Elementary

Rita Grajales is the behavior specialist at Keene’s Crossing Elementary, and she coordinates and monitors functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans for ESE students. She provides behavior support, conducts observations and makes recommendations for behavior interventions.

“Mrs. Grajales is our wonderful behavior specialist who goes above and beyond for the scholars at Keene’s Crossing,” Principal Tracy Webley said. “Her patience, empathy and calm demeanor, and commitment to learning is only a few of the reasons she was selected. She is well loved by everyone in the Keene’s Crossing community.”

What brought you to your school?

I came to Keene’s Crossing for a few reasons. First of all, I live only one mile from it, but, more importantly, it offers a variety of experiences for staff and students (gifted programs, ESE self-contained units, Chess Club, etc).

What do you love most about your school?

The things I love most about my school would be the unique personalities of the staff and students. Everyone brings something different to the table, so you have the opportunity to grow and learn something new each day. The staff is supportive and welcoming, and the students are kind. Oh, and I won’t forget the parents, as the parental support is outstanding.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is watching students grow and accomplish things they find difficult. Making those student connections and relationships last a lifetime. I recently was checked out at a store by a former student who struggled in school and is now receiving college acceptance letters. She was so excited to tell me, gave me a hug and said she would never forget how much I did to help her when she was struggling in fifth grade. Those are the moments that make my job rewarding.

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

If I was not a behavior specialist, teacher or in education, I would be a nurse or in emergency management. I genuinely enjoy helping others in any capacity.

Who influences you?

The person who influences me the most is my mother, Rita Vallebuona. I learned a lot from her and look up to her still today. She has been in education for more than 41 years, taught for 29 years in NYC, was principal for four years, moved to Florida and wanted to be back in the classroom for more eight years. She’s currently retired and subbing. We worked at the same school as fifth-grade teachers, and I will never forget it.

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

My favorite teacher when I was in school was Bernadette Garguilo. She was my eighth-grade teacher. She made me work hard and held every student accountable. She would also meet students at Wendy’s on Wednesdays as a reward for hard work, effort and success. She cared about her students, took the time to get to know them and their family, which made working hard easier, as you knew she has your best interest in mind.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

The R.L. Stine “Goosebumps” books were my favorite. They were exciting and scary at the same time. I enjoyed reading through the series and encouraged my own children to read them.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I like to cook, enjoy time out with my family and relax by the pool or beach. We are a family who like to cruise and enjoy when family and friends join us.

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

If I had a superpower, I would like to be able to read the minds of my students. Being able to be one step ahead of a misconception or understand a student’s thought process could be a game changer for both of us. In my current role as behavior specialist, many of my students are nonverbal or unable to express their wants and needs. Being able to know and understand them before they reach a level of frustration would be extremely helpful for all involved.

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

If I could only listen to 3 bands/artists they would be New Kids on the Block (my childhood favorite), Pitbull (hypes you up and gets you moving) and Kane Brown (I simply enjoy his story, songs and voice).

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

As an elementary student my favorite lunch/snack was cheese and crackers or peanut butter and crackers. I didn’t like bread for some reason. I enjoyed Funny Bones and Ring Dings. I was a very picky eater.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Christmas. It’s not about the presents. It’s about family coming together to spend time with each other in our home. I get to host Christmas every year, so we have the opportunity for both sides of the family to join and celebrate. We eat, we laugh, we play silly games and make memories.

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

My best friend in school was Joe Bara. Our mothers were best friends since we started pre-K. We did a lot together, rode our bikes everywhere, got in trouble riding up and down the train ramps, explored many corner stores for candy, Slush Puppies and milk shakes. We are still in touch but via social media mostly, as we now live in different states and our lives took different paths.

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

My extracurricular activity was softball for many years. I played first base, catcher, outfield and short stop. I was in the newspaper for hitting triples.

How long have you been at your school and with OCPS?

I have been in education for 22 years: seven years in a New York City middle school, seven years at Sunset Park Elementary, and this is my eighth year here at Keene’s Crossing. I have been with OCPS for 15 years.