OSZ Influencer of the Week: Kimberly Alshakur, Citrus Elementary

Kimberly Alshakur is the food service manager at Citrus Elementary School. “Her exceptional leadership qualities in this capacity have led to a positive working environment; highly efficient operations; and a focus on student health, nutrition and wellbeing,” Principal Robert L. Walker said. “She is a great asset for our school and just a wonderful person.”

What brought you to your school?

I applied for the food service manager position at Citrus Elementary.

What do you love most about your school?

What I love most about my school is the administration, my team and my parents. I especially thank my parents, because they entrust me on a daily basis to ensure their loved ones have a nutritional balanced meal every day.

What is your motivation?

My motivation is getting up every morning, putting a smile on the students’ faces and understanding this may be their only meal for the day. However, giving them a heathy meal with a smile is satisfaction guaranteed for me.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing children come for breakfast and lunch and giving me their feedback on how the food was presented. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I like to journal about my day and how I can make it a better tomorrow. 

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

My favorite teacher in school was my science teacher, who was such a loving and caring person. 

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

Growing up, I wanted to be a lawyer and be a voice for the underdogs — the widows and orphans.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I loved “Sleeping Beauty”; I always wanted to be a princess.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy spending time with my family.

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

If I could have any superpower, it would be to never sleep.

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

I love smooth jazz, Christmas classics and instrumental worship music. These are great for relaxing after a long day and great to accompany me on a long drive home.

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

I always loved Pizza Day in school.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love this time of the year for giving. I love the joy that it brings and the excitement to families’ lives. Also, December is my birthday month!

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

Stacey was my best friend growing up, but we are not in touch now. 

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

I ran track and field when I was a student

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

I have been at my school three years and with (Orange C