INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Suzanne Fagan, Bay Lake Elementary School

Suzanne Fagan is the secretary and bookkeeper at Bay Lake Elementary School.

In addition to her responsibilities as the secretary and bookkeeper, she also monitors the kindergarten hall in the morning, serves as the back-up school health assistant, puts together staff and student celebrations, assists with front desk duties and registration, and completes any other duties assigned to her. 

Fagan is Bay Lake Elementary School’s Support Person of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year. She also had been named Support Person of the Year previously.

She has served on the staff of Bay Lake Elementary since it opened in 2016. 

“While simultaneously managing daily office operations and scheduling, Ms. Fagan’s attention to detail and ability to handle confidential records ensure that both administrative and financial tasks run seamlessly,” Principal Cristina Mrozek said. “She is the backbone and the heart of our organization here at Bay Lake Elementary. Ms. Fagan is the perfect balance of sugar and spice, and we all love her more than these words will ever express.”

What brought you to your school? 

The principal who opened the school, Dr. Myrlene Jackson-Kimble.

What do you love most about your school? 

The staff and students.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 

Supporting the teachers. Anything I can do to help them is a privilege.

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

A stay-at-home mom with my son (many years ago; he’s grown now).

Who influences you? 

My family and all of my work family over the years.

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

Ms. Gray was my favorite teacher. She was very kind-hearted and patient.

What is your favorite children’s book and why? 

“Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel.” It was my son’s favorite book when he was little.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

Travel and garden.

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

Audrey Hepburn. She’s very elegant. I love her fashion and demeanor. 

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

To stop or slow down time. I’m grateful for every moment.

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

Fleetwood Mac, Andrea Bocelli and any jazz artists. Fleetwood Mac and jazz make me feel like dancing. Andrea Bocelli has such a beautiful voice. His music move me.

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

Sandwich spread on bread, because it’s very nostalgic for me.

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

Christmas is my favorite holiday because we get to be with our family.

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

I had a group of friends, and I do still keep in touch with all of them.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? 

I worked at the Rec Center making snacks and coffee, so I didn’t have time for extracurricular activities.

What is a fun fact about you that people would be surprised to learn? 

I love dancing with my husband, especially on cruise ships.