Influencer of the Week: Cyndia Vicens Montalvo, Tildenville Elementary

If you have called Tildenville Elementary School this year, you likely have spoken to Cyndia Vicens Montalvo, the school’s front office clerk. She is the first person you see when you walk into the reception area of the Winter Garden school, and her smile is the first thing that greets families. She is ready to assist parents and other visitors to Tildenville, and children are always happy to see her.

She is originally from Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, and is part of a large family. She has been in Florida for nine years, and she currently lives in Clermont. She says her favorite part of being a Tiger is taking care of parents and the students.

What brought you to your school?

Looking forward to a new experience, and my experience working with children. In Puerto Rico I worked three years in daycare. Here, in Kissimmee, I worked six years in a private school; three years were as a teacher’s assistant, and the other three years were at the reception.

What do you love most about your school?

The good treatment of children and the way they are cared for.

What is your motivation?

My daily motivation is my son, he makes me want to move on and not give up.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is helping people who cannot communicate well due to language barriers.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love going to the beach and fishing, and I love camping. My favorite beach is Melbourne Beach; I go fishing at Sebastian park. I take my son early in the morning, and we stay until the sun goes down. We also like to camp at Lake Louisa Park in Clermont.

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

My favorite teacher was my fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Ortiz. It seems funny, but she was my neighbor and she gave me toys for Christmas every (year).

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

When I was a girl I always dreamed of being a singer, but in reality, I do not have a good voice. I love acting; I seem to be shy, but in reality, I am not. If I had a good voice — without a doubt I would have belonged to the show.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I actually love Dr. Seuss books but “The Cat in the Hat” is my favorite.

What are your hobbies?

One of my hobbies is doing acrylic nails, makeup and everything that has to do with fashion and beauty.

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

If I could have a super power, it would be to turn back the time to see people who are no longer here. I would like to see my younger brother, Anthony, who sadly died in a car accident several years ago.

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

I like quiet music. I would say it would be Enya, Christian and instrumental music. I think that what we hear interferes with our thoughts; that is why I prefer that type of music.

How long have you been at your school and with OCPS?

I've only been with OCPS for seven months, and I started at Tildenville Elementary.