INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Coach Rose Dorsey, SunRidge Elementary School

Coach Dorsey has been at SRES for her entire OCPS career.


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Coach Rose Dorsey is the physical education paraprofessional and assists the PE teacher with supervising and instructing students. Her responsibilities include creating a safe, engaging environment and supporting the development of students’ physical and social skills.

“Coach Rose … supports our PE department as a paraprofessional,” said SunRidge Elementary Principal Adasha L. Elmore. “She is dedicated to the health and well-being of all students. With a love for fitness and all students, she is our hero each and every day! In addition, she was the Support Person of the Year for the 2023-2024 school year.”

She recently was featured on Spectrum News 13 as an everyday hero for her volunteer services with American Heart Association's Kid's Heart Challenge and Healthy West Orange’s Westly's Mile programs at SunRidge Elementary.


What brought you to your school?

What brought me to SunRidge Elementary was the welcoming work environment.


What do you love most about your school?

What I love most about SunRidge Elementary is the school’s commitment to the students, community and staff — working together as one team.


What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding aspect of my job is being a strong advocate for students. I find great joy in encouraging them to thrive and supporting them as they work toward achieving their goals.


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

If I weren’t in this profession, I would pursue a career as a children’s counselor. I’m passionate about offering guidance and support during the early stages of a child’s development.


Who influences you?

My biggest influencer early in my life was my mom. She instilled in me to always do my best at whatever I do (and I) will always eventually be rewarded.


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

My favorite teacher was Mr. Dugas, because he saw potential in me and reached out and motivated me to excel in school.


What is your favorite children’s book and why?

My favorite children’s book is “The Little Engine That Could,” by Watty Piper, because I love its message about perseverance and never giving up.


What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I like to do crafting, decorating, listening to music and baking.


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

The famous person I would dine with is Michelle Obama, because her story is inspirational.


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

Teleportation, because I would be able to see my family more often.


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

I would listen to Luther Vandross, because I love his musicality; Kenny G is relaxing; and the Wynans for their spiritual motivation.


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

My favorite lunch was spaghetti, and my favorite snack was popcorn.


What is your favorite holiday and why?

I love the Christmas holidays. I love the lights, movies, music and family gatherings.


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

My best friend in school was Betty Ledet because we had similar interests. Have lost touch over the years.


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

As a student, I was actively involved in several extracurricular activities, including being a member of the BETA Club and the Upward Bound Association. I also participated in an a capella chorus and was selected for the All-District Chorus. Athletically, I was a member of both the track and volleyball teams, and I was honored with the Best Spiker Trophy on the volleyball team.


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

I’ve proudly worked with OCPS for 11 years, spending my entire career at Sunridge Elementary.


 

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Amy Quesinberry Price

Community Editor Amy Quesinberry Price was born at the old West Orange Memorial Hospital and raised in Winter Garden. Aside from earning her journalism degree from the University of Georgia, she hasn’t strayed too far from her hometown and her three-mile bubble. She grew up reading The Winter Garden Times and knew in the eighth grade she wanted to write for her community newspaper. She has been part of the writing and editing team since 1990.

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