INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Neena Wilson, Palm Lake Elementary

Neena Wilson is the secretary and bookkeeper at Palm Lake Elementary School. She is responsible for human resources, payroll, managing school cash and internal accounts, coordinating the school’s website and social media accounts, and also helps with school events. She also works closely with the school’s Parent-Teacher Association. 

She has been nominated as Support Person of the Year two times for Palm Lake Elementary. 

“She is the school secretary/bookkeeper and the unofficial ‘mayor’ of Palm Lake Elementary,” Principal James Weis said. “She is one of those people who has instant rapport with everyone she meets. Ms. Neena handles our social media pages in addition to her other duties and is a huge part of what makes Palm Lake so special.”

What brought you to your school?

Family, which is exactly what Palm Lake is all about. Mrs. Mann (our media specialist and also a family member) encouraged me to apply. The rest is history! 

What do you love most about your school? 

PLE is affectionately described as Ohana, which means family. The students, teachers, staff and families are what make it so special. They become true family and friends. We also like to have fun! Our school events are the best. From Meet Your Teacher all the way to the Fifth Grade Celebration, we encourage family involvement all year long. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I genuinely love helping people; it’s incredibly rewarding and makes my work both meaningful and enjoyable. Greeting the students every morning and dancing in the car line is the best way to start the day.

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

I have always loved taking photos of people, places and things. I think I would be a professional photographer. My son is a real-estate photographer, and I get to help out sometimes, which I love. 

Who influences you?

My family, aka my personal hype squad! My husband, Steve, and I are high school sweethearts (we’ve been together since I was 15), our son Adam, 24, and his girlfriend Isabel, 24, are the fantastic four! They make me a better person, wife and mom! 

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

Mrs. Strong — Spanish teacher at Dr. Phillips High School. Throughout my high school years, she always inspired me to do my best by being the kindhearted person she is. I will always remember how much she cared for her students and her love for teaching.   

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“Love You Forever” by Robert Munsch. This is one of my favorites, because it illustrates the unconditional love parents have for their children. It definitely brings a tear to my eye as I think of my son, parents and the generations to come. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spending time with family and friends is No. 1! I have a wonderful family, two sisters and five beautiful nieces. I have lots of cousins that are like brothers/sisters here in Orlando and across the pond. Fun fact, 65 of us are going on a Thanksgiving cruise together this year. Traveling, concerts with my bestie Michelle, broadway shows, cruises with my girls and … I also love reality TV!

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

Princess Diana. I was born in England, and growing up, she was my role model. The “People’s Princess” was known for her genuine compassion and empathy. 

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

Mind-reading, I would love to be able to read minds so that I would always know what my husband is thinking.

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

This is a tough one … I love music! ’80s is my jam! Country is my favorite. The three that mean the most: The Beatles, my parents favorite; A-ha, “Take On Me” is my favorite song; George Straight, “I Cross My Heart” is our wedding song.

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

Pizza Day was the best! For a snack, I love chocolate chip cookies, and when I was in high school (Aww DP!) they used to sell warm cookies. We all ran to lunch on those days. (Don’t do that now, kids.)

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

Christmas. It’s the most special part of the year filled with endless time with family and friends, so many fun activities and get togethers. Lots of wonderful traditions that we hope to pass down for years to come — like matching PJs (if you know, you know), decorating my Jeep for Christmas light drives and so much more.