March 7 was Employee Appreciation Day, but we’re celebrating our team members all month long by sharing their stories. Read more about Ashley Cordek, an IT Application Specialist who works remotely for New Story Management in Ohio.
What is your favorite thing about working here?
I truly appreciate the dedication and compassion of our New Story staff, especially those on the front lines. Our office managers, teachers, paraprofessionals, RBTs, and therapists are exceptional, and I'm grateful to work alongside them every day.
What keeps you coming to work each day?
I feel fortunate to work for such an outstanding company, a sentiment that has remained true since my time at The Learning Spectrum before transitioning to New Story Management. Believing in the company's mission and the leadership guiding us is crucial for my enthusiasm and commitment.
How do you make an impact on students’ lives?
Although I don't work directly with students in my current role, I support them behind the scenes. Through PowerSchool, we ensure that students' information is accurate and their reports reflect this accuracy, aiding their educational progress.
Which one of our BetterTogether values resonates with you most personally and why? (Integrity, Accountable, Collaborative, Inclusive, Supportive)
Collaborative! I have the privilege of working with schools across different states, which is incredibly rewarding. I also collaborate with our PowerSchool team—special shout out to Gina, Grace, and Justin, who are amazing!
What does a “day in the life” look like for your role?
I start my day by checking our ticket queue to see which tickets need attention. After that, I'm engaged in various projects to support our schools. It's always exciting because each day is different, with unique needs from different schools, and I get to help address them.
Can you talk a little bit about your career trajectory and what led you to where you are now?
Absolutely! I began working at The Learning Spectrum in 2019 as a Paraprofessional. In 2021, I applied for and accepted the Marketing Coordinator position, which aligned with my bachelor's degree and experience. In 2023, New Story acquired us, and Amanda Van Wagner recommended me for the PowerSchool team. She was right—I love my current role at New Story Management and still get to support The Learning Spectrum and stay connected with my long-time colleagues.
What has been your proudest moment or accomplishment in your role?
The PowerSchool team works diligently to roll over 80+ schools and six different servers across six states. This requires meticulous planning, numerous backups, and a collaborative effort. Last year was a success, and I'm excited to tackle it again. It's challenging work, but I'm part of an incredible team.
What is something about you that not many people know?
When I was 18, I had the unique opportunity to interview and film Arnold Palmer for a promotional video for my hometown, Latrobe, Pennsylvania, highlighting the importance of trade jobs in keeping our town running.
