Candidate Spotlight: Mari Hurley
February 5, 2025
For the past six years, Mari Hurley has been a dedicated Personal Care Assistant (PCA) with GHR Education, making a lasting impact on the students she supports in Oxford, PA. Inspired by her love for working with children and her desire to be present for her own family, Mari has found immense fulfillment in her role—helping students grow, gain confidence, and navigate their school days with greater independence.
Through patience, compassion, and strong collaboration with teachers and staff, Mari plays an essential role in ensuring her students receive the support they need to succeed. Whether it’s witnessing a child learn to ask for help or hearing from a grateful parent about the difference she’s made, Mari’s work is more than just a job—it’s a passion.
Outside of work, Mari cherishes time with her family, enjoying walks, park outings, and movie nights. Balancing her career and personal life has been one of the many benefits of working as a PCA, and she’s grateful for the opportunity to make a difference every day.
Read on to learn more about Mari’s journey, her advice for aspiring PCAs, and the moments that have shaped her career.
Q: What inspired you to become a PCA?
A: What inspired me to become a PCA was the want to be around children and make an impact on their days. At the time I was hired, my children were smaller. I wanted to still be around for them when they got done school. To be able to work in the same district has been a wonderful experience. As time goes on, I continue learning new ways to help different kids in different situations.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about working with special needs students?
A: What I find most rewarding about working with special needs students is watching their confidence in knowing what they want grow. It really is awesome to see the student you’ve been working with take a deep breath and say, “I need a break.” The milestone of being able to ask for help on their own in a time of frustration is a great feeling.
Q: What’s one memorable moment in your career that stands out as particularly meaningful to you?
A: I had a mother say that she didn’t know what she’d do without me helping her child. That’s always stuck with me. To know I’ve made an impact, even at home.
Q: What skills or qualities do you believe are essential for a PCA working in a school setting?
A: I believe a PCA has to have a lot of patience and compassion. A PCA in a school setting should communicate with staff and ask for help if needed.
Q: How do you collaborate with teachers and staff to support your students effectively?
A: I have always told the teacher, “This is your classroom, and if there’s anything you’d like me to do differently, please communicate that with me.” Sometimes I need help. The teachers I’ve worked with have always treated the students and me the same as anyone else. We talk about what techniques might be working and what might not be working and work together to figure things out. Communication!
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a PCA?
A: I have recommended this job to many people over the years. If you are considering being a PCA, make sure you have patience and quick problem-solving skills in times of need.
Q: What motivates you to make a difference in your students' lives every day?
A: It is a great feeling to see your students overcome things they weren't able to at the beginning of the year.
Q: We’d love to know something fun about you outside of your professional life. What is a hobby or interest that brings joy to your days?
A: I'm a mom of two. I spend a lot of time with my kids, mother, and family as a whole. We like to take walks and go to parks, and we also love movie nights. Anything to keep us together and busy. This job has made it so that I'm off when my children are off, and I am always close by. I'm extremely thankful for this job, the students, and the teachers I work with.
Mari’s dedication to her students and passion for making a difference shines through in everything she does. As a PCA with GHR Education, she continues to create meaningful connections, empower students, and embrace the rewards of her role. Her journey is a testament to the impact compassionate, committed professionals can have in education. Thank you, Mari, for all that you do!
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