EDCOE Team Member Spotlight - Tony Patti, Special Services Driver

00:00 AM - January 07, 2020

 

Interview with Tony Patti

Briefly describe your background (where you grew up, family, why you came to work for EDCOE).

I grew up in a Irish/Italian family of 5. I am the youngest of 3 brothers. I am originally from (suburb of Baltimore) Maryland.

What is your department, title, and how long have you worked for EDCOE?

I am in EDCOE Transportation as a Special Services Driver. I have been with EDCOE for 5 years.

Describe how your role helps support programs/schools/students directly or indirectly.

Being a driver for Special Services is both demanding and rewarding. We support our students in a behavior and learning role. In my role, I am able to encourage and help my students develop good social skills with other students while in my van.

What do you most appreciate about your department/team?

Our department is very good at multi-tasking. When we are up against an opportunity that is not so favorable, we are able to get the almost impossible done on a daily basis. We have good equipment and good people.

What is your proudest moment at EDCOE? Why?

My proudest moment is when I receive positive feedback from teachers, parents, program, and my director. It is those moments when you realize that you are making a difference in these students’ lives.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I like to fix and restore a lot of different things like cars, suvs, motorcycles, and vintage toys.

What is something many people may not know about you?

I am not a Marine. Many mistake me for being a former Marine because I wear a hat with a Marine pin on it.  My oldest son is a Marine who is a great person, and I am a very proud father. My other son is a great dad as well and an equally great person.

If you could meet anyone in the world, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

There is not one person I want to meet. I like to surround myself with people who are focused on making a difference in this world. Being able to share my experiences allows me the opportunity to be a better person.

From supervisor, Paul Bracco, Transportation Director:

Tony is such a great asset to EDCOE and our transportation team. Tony is very much a people person. He understands the importance of connecting with students, parents, and program staff. His words, actions, and demeanor are ways he is able to build students up and promote a great school day.

In a recent letter from a parent, this parent stated, “Tony, my daughter looks forward to her daily rides, and I greatly appreciate you.” In another letter from a program teacher, he stated, “I have been continually impressed by the level of professionalism that Tony brings to his job as a driver for individuals with disabilities.” Tony is an outstanding driver and we are very lucky to have him on our team!

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