10/20/2026
We're so happy to be involved with the launch of Deptford High School's Teacher Preparation Academy! It's wonderful to see our students connecting with and learning from our own members inside and outside the classroom.
Check out this first feature on DEA member Ashley Hajna!
Deptford High School's new Rowan Teacher Preparatory Academy has launched an Educator Interview Series to shine a light on the many dedicated educators who make our school district special.
As part of the series, students interview a staff member, create a job posting highlighting the qualifications and responsibilities of the position, and develop a Spartan Educator Spotlight profile celebrating the individual behind the role.
For their first official spotlight, the Teacher Preparatory Academy students highlighted the amazing Mrs. Hajna, a paraprofessional in our DTLA Program! We are proud to see our students recognizing the dedication and impact of the educators who support our Spartan community each day.
Check out their first Spartan Educator Spotlight below to learn more about Mrs. Hajna! 🖤💛
--
Mrs. Hajna graduated from Deptford in 2009, and her love for the district led her home to become a paraprofessional in Deptford Schools. Currently, she supports students in the DTLA program at DHS and takes pride in working with those who have special needs. She supports her students through it all—from greeting them as they get off the bus for breakfast to guiding them through their classes. She always advocates for her kids and loves seeing their smiles each and every day. Her empathy, patience, and willingness to learn from mistakes help her succeed in this role. For her, every day on the job is a new opportunity to learn, adapt, and make a difference.
She also joined the DHS Field Hockey coaching staff to help players with special needs feel more included. Six years later, she is leading the team as the head coach. Her mentors—David Richardson, Daisy Cuevas, and Tina McDonnell—inspire her because they make learning enjoyable. Her favorite teacher was the late Mr. Enders, who made her laugh every day and sparked her interest in science.
Mrs. Hajna is proud to be a lifelong learner in Deptford Schools. Both on and off the field, she brings joy, boundless energy, and positivity to everyone around her We are grateful to have her in Deptford.
“As long as you learn and grow from your mistakes, you’re doing it right!”
