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Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County. This school year, Leader Publications will publish spotlights featuring teachers and staff throughout the Dowagiac Union Schools district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. 

Name: Dara Killarney

How many years have you been driving a school bus? How many years have you been with your current school district? Started in 2017 with Dowagiac Union Schools (Driving for 7 years)

Why did you decide to drive a school bus? I enjoy the kids I get to interact with.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Seeing the kids smile and hearing them laugh.

Outside of driving, what do you enjoy doing for fun? Family time

What are your favorite movies to watch? Hallmark movies

What were your favorite hobbies as a child? Sports, music, and art

How would your coworkers describe your personality? Friendly, outgoing, team player, caring, and most of all FUNNY

Who is your biggest role model and why? I am honored to say that my grandpa and grandma West are my biggest role models. When life gets hard, they kept pushing through with love, laughter, and smiles. Grandma was a foster parent, which showed strength, love, and caring. Grandpa showed that dreams can come true with owning his own business. Best of all, they both showed a role model can be someone new everyday. Never give up!