Barbara Burns

Mar 15, 2007 3:23 PM

When she started her career as a paraprofessional 10 years ago, Barbara Burns went to work at IS 27 — and she has been there ever since. Her dedication to students with special needs is what makes her stand out or, in the words of the teachers who nominated her for this award, Barbara “clearly defines what it means to be outstanding.”

She purchases meals for students when they haven’t eaten and school supplies and clothing when they have none. Long after they have graduated, many return to express their fond gratitude. Some had become young parents to whom Barbara provided critical emotional support.

For more than 20 years Barbara has taken several mentally disabled adults into her family and made sure that their medical, financial and living needs are met. She raises money for the American Cancer Society and other organizations committed to easing the plight of the homeless. She is active in the Catholic Youth Organization and as a parent at Moore Catholic HS.

Her daughter, Paula Hayden, is a teacher and dean at IS 7.