INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Barbara Melendez-Dobson, of Bay Meadows Elementary

Barbara Melendez-Dobson is the secretary/bookkeeper at Bay Meadows Elementary School and is responsible for the school finances and budget, substitutes, workers comp coordinator and assistant to the principal. She handles all the money that goes in and out of the school; and she works closely with administration, instructors and classified. She also supports staff as needed.

“Barbara is the backbone and support for students, teachers and staff,” said Joann M. Dorries, BMES principal. “She manages many tasks and responsibilities each day with a positive customer services approach with everyone.”

What brought you to your school?

I worked in the financial aid office at Mid-Florida Technical School for 16 years, and I took a chance to be closer to home and to also do something different in my career and include younger children that need guidance and foundation in the beginning of their school life. At Mid-Florida Tech, I was with adults seeking more education, and now I am with children beginning their education.

What do you love most about your school?

I love the fact that every day is something different, whether it be with a child that is just having a bad day and needs extra attention or just making sure all classes are covered if substitutes are needed or checking the budget and the finances of the school. Every day is a different day. I love that, as employees, we work together as a team and we know that we are all here eight hours a day to better Bay Meadows.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Helping and taking the load and extra work off the teachers and classified staff. When they come to me and ask for my assistance in ordering supplies Directing them the best way to do something. I love working with numbers, so when they are confused about something, it gives me joy to be able to help them. I love working with our admin leadership team and principal; there must be good leadership in order for the school to run smooth. I love helping as much as I can, because if I need help, I know I can ask and I will get it.

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

An accountant for a big banking company, for sure. Like I said above, I like numbers and figuring things out.

Who influences you?

My two adult children — they are both so different, and depending on the situation, I know one of them will give me the best advice. It’s the best feeling to be able to learn from those you taught.

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

My coach, Teresa Anderson — she always would come into the locker room and say, “I don’t care how you feel today, whether you had a bad day or good day, but when you go out on that track, you will do your best according to how good you will feel after.” It never made sense till I became an adult and the challenges in the world happened.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“Cinderella.” My mom used to read the Spanish version to me, and she would always say at the end, “See, you don’t have to be perfect to be noticed.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to exercise — gym rat I am. I love spending time with my children and grandson and spending quality time with my best friends. We are all women over 40-50 years old that have life experiences and are breezing through it together. Just because you are older doesn’t mean you can’t have a good solid group of friends; we support each other mentally.

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

Celia Cruz — I would want to know her whole life story straight from her, her struggles and her victories being raised in the Bronx.

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

To be invisible, to be able to leave the present room and still get things done but no one can see it being done. Being invisible has many advantages, too many to mention, but I always have dreamt of that superpower.

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

Marc Anthony, Gilberto Santa Rosa and Willie Colon. I was raised on listening to them and would not want them out of my future. Brings back great memories.

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

Not a snack, maybe a meal to some, but grill cheese sandwiches.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Easter. The day Christ walked out of that tomb will always be important to me and my religion.

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

Tami Peterson, and no we are not still in contact. She passed away in her 30s. She taught me English when I would struggle with some words, coming from a bilingual home. If I didn’t understand something, she was my own personal ESOL teacher. She was my friend in middle school and high school; we did so many things together. I’m thankful for those memories.

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

I was on track and field but hurt my knee and couldn’t continue. I was a cheerleader in high school and won medals for that.

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

At Bay Meadows for four years now and with OCPS in September will be 20 years.