OSZ Influencer: Yolanda Drislane, Lakeview Middle School

Yolanda Drislane is the SAFE Coordinator at Lakeview Middle School. “If you know anything about my position, you know I do a little of everything, but I am usually dealing with students and their families,” she said. “I spend my days ‘behind the scenes,’ being a listening ear and a problem-solver.” Jackie Ihnenfeld, assistant principal at the school, said she would not be able to function without Drislane. “She is an amazing human being who is always going out of her way to help students who need it the most,” Ihnenfeld said. “She is creative, loving, determined and an all-around amazing spirit that works relentlessly to help students who have had, or are currently experiencing, trauma. The things she’s put in place to help our students and families would astound some folks. I can say with absolute certainty that we are a better school and our kids are better humans because she is here with us.”

What brought you to your school?

My life was turned upside down when COVID-19 hit. A good friend joked about having a job for me and all I had to do was move to Florida. A new job in a new state (across the country) seemed like the next best adventure, so my family and I took the leap!

What do you love most about your school?

We have a staff like no other! We are a group of the best-kept secrets, and I appreciate, deeply, how people continue to show up to support our students and families. 

What is your motivation?

I want to support young people and their families through the confusion that is preteen-hood. I want to help them communicate, connect and create long-lasting bonds. I also have a family of my own, and our bond will always inspire me to keep going. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Watching middle-schoolers learn how to get through some of the most challenging times of their lives. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

What spare time?! I am a baseball mom, but when we are not at a game, we like spending time together or with friends. 

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

I went to Catholic school, so it was Sr. Rose Marie Chamberlain in third grade. She didn’t dress like the other nuns, and she was a little sassy. She also taught us how to love and appreciate ourselves and our work. 

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

A ballerina or a social worker. I wanted to create art and help people. It’s funny, because every job I’ve ever had has included a form of both. 

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I adored the book “Corduroy.” I was pretty young, and I think it was the first time I connected with a character in a book. 

What are your hobbies?

I love to read, dance and create! Painting, writing or taking pictures are all my jam. I also like to go on mini adventures with friends and family. 

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

I’ve always wanted to be able to become invisible. I’m an introvert.

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

That’s too hard. Music is my love language, and I can’t limit myself. If I had to choose, it would probably be anything that comes from 1990s hip hop and R&B.

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

Because I went to Catholic school, we didn’t have a cafeteria, so we lived for pizza Friday. As for treats, most weekends I spent at my grandparents’ house, and I remember some of my favorite treats came from a bakery down the street from their house. 

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I love Christmas! It’s the one time my siblings and I (and our families) are in the same place, plus it’s my brother’s birthday. It’s a pretty special time. 

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

We didn’t go to school together, but to this day, I am still friends with my very first friend. We shared a playpen when we were babies, and now we enjoy getting our families together to make memories. 

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

I was a dancer. I trained in ballet, tap, jazz and lyrical for years. Any awards I can remember receiving in school usually had to do with community service or working with younger children.