Influencer of the Week: Donna Lyle, Water Spring Elementary

At Water Spring Elementary, Donna Lyle wears many hats and has a passion for serving others. It’s why she recently was recognized by the district as an Outstanding Community Involvement Coordinator for the ADDitions and Partners in Education programs, for which she received a crystal award. School staff said Lyle influences students’ lives and the community in a positive way on a daily basis, and she donates hundreds of volunteer hours between both school and community events. 

What brought you to your school?

In 2019, I heard Orange County was opening a new elementary school in Horizon West but did not know at the time the administration team would be posted at the school I was currently working in. As I saw them do their work and became acquainted with them, I knew I wanted to be a part of this amazing group of people.

What do you love most about your school?

I love so much about Water Spring Elementary, but my most favorite part is definitely the people I work with. Working the front desk provides me unique opportunity to work hand-in-hand not only with the staff but also with the families of our students and the students themselves. Whether it be as simple as getting a student from class so they can leave early or as big as easing a nervous mom’s mind who is new to the area, helping others is one of the most gratifying things about this job. The team atmosphere and family approach makes this place feel like home, so it’s easy to get up and come to work every day. 

What is your motivation?

I have been volunteering since before I became an employee with OCPS. When my children were in school, I was a room mom, and I always volunteered in any other way I could, including PTO events. I still enjoy volunteering even though I am an employee. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, my volunteering has taken on a different shape that I have really enjoyed. I have been able to honor our LaunchEd students with their Student of the Month and Honor Roll certificates and prizes by delivering them to their door! I greet them with a smile and make them feel as special as I possibly can.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love the sunshine! So, in my spare time, I love to go to the beach and hang out in my pool. Anything that provides me special time to love on my family and serve them is my favorite thing.

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

My favorite teacher was my fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Davis. He was very easy to talk to, and I could tell he had a love for children, and he loved me. I learned so much from him.  

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

When I was young, I only had a few chances to travel outside my city. I always wanted to be a flight attendant, so I could see the world and mingle with people.   

Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?

My biggest inspiration was my mother. She was a single parent that had polio and did not drive, yet she raised three children all on her own. We moved to Florida when my parents divorced, and we had a tough life, but my mother sacrificed to give us what we needed. She always put others first and would do anything for anyone. My dream in life was to be the best mom to my children like she was for me and my sisters. She set a wonderful example for me. 

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

If I had a superpower, it would be the power of healing the sick. We have had so many people die in the last year, (and) it is heartbreaking.    

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

I like to jam out in my car and dance to Whitney Houston, John Legend and Sam Smith — all without having a wreck!