Influencer of the Week: Lilly Moses, Legacy Charter High School

Lilly Moses was hired as the receptionist, but she said some people call her the chaos coordinator. She is the school nurse and National Honor Society adviser, and she helps tutor students who are struggling, assists the principal, answer all the calls and handles anything else that comes into her path. This year, she and a coworker started a Joy Cart, and they take it around monthly to surprise teachers with treats. It’s a successful day if she can brighten someone’s day. She has a big heart for all of the Legacy students and families.

What brought you to your school?
I came to Legacy to be with my kids. All we had ever done before was homeschool.

What do you love most about your school?

The students and our principal. I came with intentions to touch their lives; little did I know how much these students would touch mine. Legacy is led by the most wonderful principal; we would not be who we are without Kristy Castellanos. She daily supports and motivates us.

What is your motivation?

I try my best to honor and glorify Jesus in every part of my life. I was always taught that I might be the only Jesus that people will ever see. My prayer is that Legacy sees Jesus in me.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I really love building relationships with the students. These kids know that I fight for them. I believe in them. They have the ability to make a difference. It’s so rewarding when they share their ups and downs with me. I hope they all know that I truly am there for them.   

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I absolutely love going to coffee shops with my girlfriends and doing a little shopping! I love being spontaneous, too, and taking random road trips with my family.

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

Lester Banks. This man has been there for decades and is loved by all. He truly is a legend in my hometown. He always said hi as you walked by, was famous for selling football tickets and made sure no one was skipping school.

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

There were actually many things I thought I’d like. When I was little, I thought a doctor would be fun but realized I don’t really do well with the sight of blood. For a while I wanted to be a wedding planner. As a teenager, I learned that I was made to serve in ministry. My husband and I served in youth ministry for many years. We’ve been in full-time ministry since 2011, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“The Three Bears”; this is a book I remember reading over and over. It’s the only book I still have from my childhood. I love how baby bear always knew that something was wrong with the scene left by Goldilocks.

What are your hobbies?

I have a Cricut and love making T-shirts. My latest creation was Napoleon Dynamite-themed shirts for my family and some friends.

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

Time travel! I would love to go back and meet ancestors. Family history is so fascinating to me. Any story my dad or grandma tells me, I just try to soak it all in.

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

Phil Wickham, David Phelps and Mandisa are some of my favorites. I love Phil Wickham’s song “Hymn of Heaven,” David Phelp’s song “No More Night,” and Mandisa’s “Way Maker.” Back when Mandisa was on “American Idol,” I voted for her every week!

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

Square pizza was always my favorite from the cafeteria. When my dad would fix my lunch, my sandwiches always had a mustard smiley face on them. I loved it when I was able to get a Dreamsicle during lunch.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas is my most favorite holiday ever! I am the person who decorates the first weekend in October. If Christmas never came, we would have no hope.

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

Val! We were inseparable in high school. We were with each other every moment we could. I moved out of state when I was 20, so it’s been many years since we’ve lived close by. But we always pick up right where we left off.

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

In middle school, I tried volleyball, track, basketball and tennis. I quickly learned those were not my gifts and gave cheerleading a try. I loved cheering and stayed with that through high school. I also played clarinet in middle school band.

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

I’m finishing up my third year with Legacy.