Influencer of the Week: Maile Aiwohi, Windermere Elementary School

Maile Aiwohi is Windermere Elementary School’s PTO president. As president, she presides over meetings of the membership and the executive board, as well as serves as an ex officio member of all committees except the nominating and audit committees. She is also an ADDitions volunteer and was named ADDitions Volunteer of the Year. As part of ADDitions, she chaperones school field trips and supports the teachers in her children’s classes.

What brought you to your school? 

The Learning Garden. We were deciding which school to go to, and when I saw the Facebook posts about the garden, I knew it was my school.

What do you love most about your school?

I love our teachers and staff. They go above and beyond and that’s why I try my best to support them.

What is your motivation?

My motivation was to be in sync with our schools needs and wants and to also ensure my kids got the most from WES.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

When I hear how much fun the kids got out of an activity, especially when it is an educational program.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

I like to play pickleball in my spare time. 

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

Ms. King, fourth grade. She told me I could be whatever I wanted, and I achieved that.

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

I wanted to be a Supreme Court justice, it just seemed like seeking the truth made the most sense.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“The Grouchy Ladybug’’ by Eric Carle, because it shows that no matter what your day is like, a friendly (ladybug) is all it takes to settle your soul.

What are your hobbies? 

My hobbies are pickleball, boxing, reading and dancing.

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

Teleportation. Half my family lives in Hawaii and half in New York. I’d love to be able to see them whenever I wanted.

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

Maroon 5, Madonna and Alicia Keys, because why not?

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

My go-to lunch was definitely square pizza. My favorite snack was that triangle icy thing. 

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

Thanksgiving, because food … and love.

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

I’ve moved a lot and have had so many friends; there was always a best friend for a specific part of my life. I still talk to them all and they are all special but now I have an adult best friend that I love as much as the rest.

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

As a student I was in orchestra, volleyball, track, student government and mathletes. I was also on the honor roll and in the honor society.

REPORT CARD

Position: PTO President

Time at school: Five years

Time with OCPS: Seven year