INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Leah Fenton, Summerlake Elementary

Leah Fenton is a school assistant at Summerlake Elementary School. She works at the front desk and is the first person families visiting the school see when walking into the school. Fenton also serves as the ADDitions coordinator, ensuring any school volunteers are vetted properly. 

“Leah is the welcoming face of Summerlake Elementary, the first point of contact for families registering, collecting sick children or delivering forgotten items,” Principal Delaine Bender said. “Beyond the front desk, she orchestrates the ADDitions and Parent in Education programs, verifies chaperone approvals, supervises lunch duty, and tackles countless administrative tasks essential to the school’s daily operation. Leah’s consistent smile and exceptional service create a supportive environment for students, staff and families. Her ability to handle diverse responsibilities allows teachers to dedicate themselves fully to instruction. Summerlake is truly fortunate to have her.”

What brought you to your school?
After staying home for 12 years after my children were born, I was looking for an opportunity out of the house. I’m very grateful to Ms. Bender for giving me this opportunity after being home for so long. 

What do you love most about your school?
My coworkers are great! We have fun together which makes the day pass quickly. They also always step in to help (one another) whenever possible. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The kids are the most rewarding part of the job. I love getting to know their individual personalities. 

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?
If I didn’t work for OCPS, I think organizing, staging and getting homes ready for sale would be a great fit for me. I love the process, and moving to a new home is an exciting time. 

Who influences you?
My kids influence me. I try to model behaviors I want them to emulate as they grow to be good, kind humans. I also try to treat the kids at school with the same respect I’d want others to treat my own children. 

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
My favorite teacher was my fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. McGrath. She let us stay after to help her decorate her classroom and grade tests. We felt like she trusted us, and she was always kind. 

What is your favorite children’s book and why?
My favorite children’s book when I was young was “The Babysitter’s Club” series. I loved that each book focused on a different character. My favorite book to read to my kids was “Wherever You Are My Love Will Find You” by Nancy Tillman. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy baking and traveling with my husband and two sons. 

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
If I could dine with anyone it would be RBG (Ruth Bader Ginsburg), because she had a brilliant mind, and I’d love to listen to her discuss some of her most interesting cases. 

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
If I could have any superpower, I’d choose to be able to understand and speak every language, because I only speak English, and I’m intrigued by people who can speak multiple languages. It would also make communication with locals when traveling to new places easier. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
If I could only listen to three bands it would be Fleetwood Mac, Dermot Kennedy and Dave Matthews Band. I love Dermot Kennedy’s lyrics, and the other two remind me of my childhood and high school. 

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
My go-to lunch was turkey and cheese with mayo. My favorite snack was chocolate chip cookies (still is!).

What is your favorite holiday and why?
My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving, because you have time with family and the anticipation of the upcoming holiday season, but the stress that sometimes follows hasn’t set in yet. 

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
My best friend in school was Suzanne. We met the first few days of high school, played basketball together and have remained friends for 30 years! We live far apart now, but we still keep in touch. 

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
I played JV basketball in high school but definitely no accolades there!