INFLUENCER Of THE WEEK: Naya Dorkins, Innovation Montessori Ocoee

Naya Dorkins, a registered nurse, joined Innovation Montessori Ocoee during the height of COVID and has worked long hours, evenings and weekends included, to keep the community informed and healthy. As if being a school nurse in the time of COVID didn't keep her busy enough, she also formed a basketball team and then agreed to be the coach. She said this is one of the highlights of her life.

What brought you to your school?

Becoming a school nurse has always been the desire of my heart. I know my purpose is to be a nurse and to influence the lives of children and youth. The pandemic opened the door for me to become the school nurse for this school.

What do you love most about your school?

I love how my school cares for our students. You can feel that each staff member truly cares for their students. Our school gives children the environment to flourish and feel safe to be themselves.  

What is your motivation?

My motivation is to give the next generation hope. I am motivated at the thought of children and youth being free to pursue and reach their goals. My heart is, and will always be, for the betterment and success of future generations

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is to build connections with the students and see them happy and motivated to be the best humans they can be. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I own a basketball academy and spend most of my free time running my business, coaching basketball, training basketball players, watching basketball, studying basketball. To sum it up, basketball consumes my free time, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

My favorite teacher was my second-grade teacher. She was my favorite teacher because I knew and felt that she genuinely loved her students. 

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

I wanted to be in the WNBA and be a nurse. I reached one of those goals and hope to train a bunch of players who make it to the WNBA or NBA. 

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

My favorite children's book was “The Rainbow Fish,” by Marcus Pfister. I loved that book as a child because it was visually appealing. 

What are your hobbies?

Basketball, cooking, laughing and self-care. Can I make taking naps a hobby? I'd love to try.  

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

My superpower would be to know every winning lottery and Powerball number. I would use the money to help people with whatever the need. You can help solve issues for thousands of people with finances. If the needs of people are met, there would be more peace.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

Deeper Worship (the worship team at my church); William McDowell, because his music always recalibrates my focus on what matters most in my life; and Chris Brown, because I LOVE to dance!

What was your go-to lunch as an elementary student? Any favorite snacks or special treats you remember?

I loved PB&J sandwiches; still do. I looked forward to having pizza every Thursday, though. 

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love Christmas for the reason why we even celebrate the day, spending time with my family, and I get to watch basketball all day long with my loved ones. 

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

My best friend has always been my little brother. We talk every single day!

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

Of course, basketball was my activity of choice. I won and received countless awards, honors and accolades. My favorite would've been academic all-star, where I was noticed for my excellent academic achievement and being an all-star in basketball. It was the best of both worlds