Lansing USD469 Employee Spotlight: Diane Kelly, Lansing Elementary Library Technician
Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of our district. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Diane Kelly, Lansing Elementary Library technician
Question: How long have you worked for Lansing USD469?
Answer: 20 years
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I am very fortunate to spend my days with the kiddos at the elementary school. We read A LOT of books and do fun activities with Mrs. Silva's students at the intermediate school. We work on writing projects - we just finished student-to-staff shout outs and thankful leaves. Mrs. Silva and I have written the library GVC. When I am not working on library things, I also get to assist with the tech side, setting up iPads at the beginning of the year and working on any issues throughout the year. After hours, I like to spend time with my husband Mitch, my daughter Faith, and her husband Austin. Faith is a 5th grade teacher at Grayhawk Elementary.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: THE KIDS!!!! Kg-3rd grade are the best kiddos (in my opinion).
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: My family, dogs and of course READING!!
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: WOW, unusual about me? that is a loaded question! As silly as I can be at work, I am usually more quiet at home. I save it all up for the kids :)
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: There are a lot of stories with present students and former, but I think what always gets me in the feels is when a former student stops me and shares a story of us. On my anniversary, my daughter posted on social and a student (and her former classmate) from MANY years ago shared how our relationship positively affected her and made the days better for her when she was having a rough time in her life. It really made me realize how even the small conversations can impact. Daily, I love to see the kids that were "ours" last year and have moved on to LIS stop me and give some hugs and hear how their day has been, and ask me to pass on hellos to their former teachers.
Question: What piece of advice would you like to offer to students to help them succeed and make the most of their educational journey?
Answer: There will be many times you will think "I can't" as you work through school, but I am here to tell you that you can! The teachers, and staff in school all want you to succeed and will support you always.