You would think that raising two boys and two grandchildren would be enough, but not for Kennedy High School’s Health Technician.

Mrs. Dona Hackworth is a part of what makes Kennedy such a wonderful school; she is the woman who keeps us all going. From administering medications to taking temperatures, Mrs. Hackworth will never go unappreciated.

The Anaheim Union High School District also saw how wonderful Mrs. Hackworth is, and gave her an award that sums up who she is to all of our staff and students. She was nominated as the Employee of the Year of the District, and received this award, one that is much deserved.

“I was very surprised when I found out. Mr. Earnest came in and told me, and all I could think was, ‘What?’ but I was very humbled,” Mrs. Hackworth said. “There are so many other people who have a passion for the kids here, so I was definitely surprised.”

On average, Mrs. Hackworth takes care of and sees about 40 students a day. Her ‘kid count’ fluctuates, but she loves what she does.

“Whether it’s offering a student first aid, rest, water, food, a place to catch up on homework, share what’s heavy on their heart or even an open invitation to use the H.O. restroom, at the end of the day, I feel great gratification knowing that I made a difference in a teen’s life,” Mrs. Hackworth said.

Being Kennedy High School’s second mom comes second to being an actual mom and a grandmother. Raising her two sons, Matt, 27, and Dan, 25, is her greatest accomplishment and raising her grandchildren is one of her greatest passions. Braden, 3, and Madison, 8 months, bring her tons of welcomed joy.

“I love knowing that my grandkids need me and love being around me,” Mrs. Hackworth said. “They are tiring, but a lot of fun. I love taking care of them, playing with them, and teaching them.”

The students at Kennedy count on her to be “there for them,” and she happily fills that need. Summing up her experience and camaraderie with the Kennedy staff and students, Mrs. Hackworth’s favorite quote is “always remember to forget the troubles that passed away. But never forget to remember the blessings that come each day.”

Mrs. Hackworth is definitely one of the blessings that grace our Kennedy staff and students each day, and we thank her for her work, especially her love.