Hannah Hazelwood helps prekindergarten students at Bertram Elementary School with a hands-on learning activity. Staff photo by Elizabeth De Los Santos
Hannah Hazelwood plays an essential role in the prekindergarten classroom at Bertram Elementary School, ensuring students feel supported, loved, and ready to learn each day.
“I help the teacher with anything she needs, whether it’s preparing materials, stepping in if she has to step out, or just being there for the kids,” Hazelwood said.
She has dedicated nearly five years to that role and was voted Favorite School Paraprofessional in the Burnet area by The Picayune Magazine readers and KBEY 103.9 FM Radio Picayune listeners in the 2025 Locals Love Us contest.
Before joining Bertram Elementary, Hazelwood worked with 3-year-olds at a private preschool in Burnet for four years.
“I love kids—I actually just had my first child a year ago,” she said. “It’s the best feeling making sure kids know they’re loved and that they can come to you about anything.”
Pre-K, she explained, is a particularly exciting age because that’s when kids’ personalities really start to shine.
“They’re hilarious,” she said. “They’ll tell you exactly how they feel. One minute, it’s, ‘I’m so mad at you right now,’ and the next, it’s, ‘I love you!’”
Hazelwood’s favorite part of the job is the morning greetings.
“They run up to me with big hugs, saying, ‘Good morning, Miss Hannah!’ It makes my day,” she said.
The Burnet native values the strong sense of community in her hometown.
“Everyone knows everyone, and people always step up to help,” she said. “I love that about Burnet.”
Receiving a Locals Love Us award came as a complete surprise.
“When I found out, I was shocked!” she said. “I didn’t realize how many people knew me or noticed what I do. It feels really nice to be recognized.”
She believes paraprofessionals make a big impact in the classroom, providing crucial support to both teachers and students.
“We’re there to step in when needed, help with behaviors, and make sure every student gets the attention they need. It takes patience, but I love it,” she said.
