OSZ Influencer of the Week: Latchmi Kisto, Maxey Elementary School

Latchmi Kisto is the school nurse at Maxey Elementary School. She said her duties are to “provide exceptional care for every single student that needs me.” Carletta Davis-Wilson, principal at the school, said Kisto is passionate about caring for the school’s students. “She attends to their smallest concerns and gives reassuring hugs to make students feel safe,” Davis-Wilson said. “Mrs. Kisto is a bundle of energy that brings joy to our school team.”

What brought you to your school? 

​I came to Maxey Elementary, because I really wanted to serve in a school within my community. I am very fortunate to be part of this school and very happy to be here. 

What do you ​love most about your school? 

I love the children and staff at Maxey. The administration and support staff are absolutely amazing, and I wouldn’t trade it. Teamwork makes work great. 

What is your motivation? 

I am inspired by my co-workers’ work ethics, and it motivates me to continuously improve myself while spreading positive energy. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 

Where do I begin? There is so much to say, but I will keep it brief. To be able to do what I love to do while bringing smiles and cheers to the children and staff of Maxey is rewarding enough for me.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

I enjoy spending time with my family, going on trips, watching my favorite TV shows and playing games with my kids. 

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

My favorite teacher in school was my fifth-grade teacher, Ms. Akilla. She was always happy but still strict. I enjoyed being a student in her class, because I feel as if learning was fun with her. 

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

I wanted to be a nurse. I always admired the way nurses are so caring, and I am inspired by the way they’re able to make a difference. Becoming a nurse gave me the ability to provide care, and I hope I can make a difference, as well. 

What is your favorite children’s book and why? 

My favorite children’s book is “Winnie the Pooh!” I loved it, because of how easily it promotes friendship and being thoughtful. 

What are your hobbies?

Some of my favorite hobbies are fishing, cooking, gardening, traveling with my family and experimenting with new organization methods for my home. 

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

If I could have any superpower it would be a healing power, because there are so many diseases I cannot fix but really wish I could. 

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

It would be first Bob Marley, (because) I absolutely love reggae music, and it always makes me think of being back on an island enjoying a vacation. My second favorite is the Kes band. The band is an unusual combination of soca and reggae music that always puts me in a good mood. Lastly, I love relaxing jazz music while making dinner with my family. It always makes me feel as if we’re having dinner at a fancy restaurant! 

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

One of my all-time favorite school snacks was boiled and fried channa with mango sour from the small food vendors outside my school. This was both healthy, filling, super delicious and my mom approved.

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

My absolute favorite holiday would be Christmas. Growing up in Guyana, Christmas was celebrated quite differently. Most families couldn’t afford to buy presents for their children so gift giving was not very big back then. However, it still brought family and friends together which is what makes it my favorite. 

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

My best friend was Kamini. We have been friends since elementary school. She is very caring, kind-hearted and fun to be around. I remember her following me home, and I followed her back, and well she followed me back again. And yes, we are still in touch.

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

We didn’t have much extracurricular activities growing up in a third-world country, but we did have after school lessons, which were basically tutoring and  finishing homework.