Influencer of the Week: Eileen Oats, Independence Elementary

Eileen Oats is the assistant principal at Independence Elementary School. She will be retiring after working 30 years in education; 13 of which she spent work for Orange County Public Schools. She helped open Independence Elementary five years ago, and has been an integral part of the school’s success. She is loved and will be missed by the school community, staff, parents and students.

What do you love most about your school?

It is such a pleasure coming to school every day at Independence Elementary School, home of the Eagles. I love the dedicated teachers and staff. They are always willing to do anything necessary to ensure success and they always have smiles on their faces. Our wonderful students work so hard every day as they learn and achieve. They know at IES, “The sky is the limit”. As we all know, it takes a village to educate children and we are so fortunate to have supportive parents and a wonderful community. 

What's your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of the job is watching students grow academically and socially throughout the school year and as they progress from one grade level to the next. 

What made you want to take on this job?

I was excited to open a new school. It was both challenging and exciting to organize and create a brand new beautiful learning environment for our students to enjoy and excel. Watching their faces when they came to school the first day was a thrilling moment I will always remember.

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best?

I am motivated by all of our students who are hungry for learning. Guiding them to always achieve and reach their full potential has helped our school earn an “A” grade every year. Our students have improved each year, and last year, IES was the highest achieving elementary school in Orange County Public Schools. It is amazing knowing that we are helping these students to be the best versions of themselves every day socially and academically. 

What's the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you?

The nicest things I have received from students are hand-made gifts or cards for various occasions. These remembrances are very special and I appreciate when teachers allow students to do this for me. 

What’s your favorite place to eat?

 I love seafood from any place, especially when it’s fresh on the coast.

If you could take a vacation to anywhere in the world, where would you go? Why? 

Dubai is first on my bucket list when I retire at the end of this school year because of the ultramodern architecture and of course the luxury shopping!

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

If I had a super power, I would want to turn back the hands of time. It has been an honor to work in OCPS since 2006 and I am proud that I will retire in June 2020 with 30 year of service in education. I would love to be able to go back in time and do it all over again.

Cats, dogs or some other pet? 

I have a 6 pound brown and black Yorkie named Nyla who is playful and loving.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I like to travel to visit family and friends, and also see new places. I also love to shop every weekend if I can!

If you were trapped on a deserted island and can only take three items with you, what would you bring and why?

If I was trapped on a deserted island I would take a bag of toiletries, a hammock, and a satellite phone.

What was your favorite book growing up? 

My favorite book growing up was Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss. This book brings back memories of my mother making my green egg and ham for breakfast when I first received this book.

What is your favorite sports team to cheer for?

My favorite team is the Pittsburgh Steelers.