INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Connie Feeney, of Whispering Oak Elementary

Connsuela “Connie” Feeney is the registrar at Whispering Oak Elementary School and enrolls and withdraws students, as well as manages the school records. She was nominated as the school’s Support Person of the Year in 2023-24.

“Connie was chosen because of her fantastic outlook,” Principal Kip Montgomery said. “By title, she is our registrar who handles registering students. She knows each student by name, handles their needs in the office, works with parents and volunteers, and assists teachers. She is the ultimate in customer service and is the ‘face’ of our front office.

“She is warm and caring and handles tasks with care and positivity,” he said. “She respects everyone, listens to them, supports their needs and is always willing to lend a hand to supporting staff.”

What brought you to your school?

I previously was at another OCPS school, but my position was bumped due to budget cuts. I, thankfully, was hired at Whispering Oak Elementary and, honestly, I can't imagine being anywhere else.

What do you love most about your school?

Oh, my goodness, there's so much. I love the "family" atmosphere with my co-workers. I love the relationships I have made with the students, and I love that we have so many friendly parents that volunteer so much of their time to help throughout the year.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

When enrolling students of new families to our school, I make them feel welcome and confident their child/children are in a friendly, caring, learning environment. I also love the "Good morning" and "Have a great day" from students as I welcome them into school each day.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

I can't imagine doing anything else. I would probably enjoy teaching others to sew and crochet.

Who influences you?

My co-workers influence me daily to constantly learn more and always help wherever I'm able. We are family, not just co-workers; we help whenever/wherever needed.

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

Ms. Dozier my home economics teacher. She was encouraging.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

I've always enjoyed reading starting as a young child. “Charlotte's Web” was a favorite — the cover caught my attention, the baby Wilbur in Fern's lap was so cute; yes, I was judging a book by its cover. The relationship/friendship formed between Wilbur and Charlotte is special. “Charlotte's Web” proves how important it is to have true friendships.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I have two grandchildren I love to spend time with when able. I sew, machine embroidery and crochet when possible. I also love going to Walt Disney World. I'm not ashamed to admit I become a 4-year-old little girl when I walk through the gates — it's magical.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

My grandmother isn't "famous," but I would love to have one more meal with her, especially if she did the cooking. She was a great cook and baker. More importantly, she taught me to sew, hand embroider, needlepoint and crochet. To be able to tell her and show her the love I have for these arts and show her how accomplished I am and how much I continue to learn would be a dream come true.

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

To be able to see into the future to see my grandchildren as adults.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

I really do enjoy different genres of music, but if I had to choose just three, I would listen to Elton John, Billy Joel and the Beatles. I appreciate their musical ability and songwriting that has spanned the decades.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

My favorite lunch was fluffernutters. My mom made them for me as a child, and I still enjoy them as an adult. My favorite snack was and still is gummy bears and Good & Plenty.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I believe in the reason for the season of Christmas and the excitement it brings to children, but when my children were young, I enjoyed Halloween. I made a lot of their costumes, which brought me pride and joy as they were so excited to wear them.

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

I grew up in the Army, so I moved around a lot. Kiki and I have been friends since young childhood. We wrote letters for a while then lost touch then reconnected thanks to Facebook.

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

I learned to play the flute in fifth grade and was in the school band till I graduated. I loved being in concert band and marching band. I was the drum major in marching band in ninth grade. More importantly is the friendship and camaraderie I enjoyed being in the band.

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

I have been at Whispering Oak Elementary for three years three months and have been with OCPS for three years 10 months.