LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Linda Clayton was nominated by her principal, LaTonya Brown.

Ms. Clayton is in her third year as the secretary/bookkeeper for Lake Gem Elementary School. Aside from fulfilling the duties of two positions at once, she has also volunteered her time to mentor two Lake Gem Elementary Young Lives Matters (YLM) students. She checked in with the students on a daily basis and ate lunch with them once a week. Ms. Clayton worked with the students to set academic and social goals. By completing the eight week program, the students were able to go a long way towards meeting their goals and were honored with a recognition ceremony at the end of the year. The personal connection Ms. Clayton provided helped these two students improve their academics and behavior.

Ms. Clayton carries out her professional responsibilities in an effective and efficient manner. She interacts well with all stakeholders and helps build positive relationships. She ensures that funds are spent according to state and district policies and procedures. Although Ms. Clayton was new to the OCPS organization and its way of work, she worked diligently to learn the processes and sought guidance with various departments and schools to become more acclimated.

"I have been very pleased with Ms. Clayton's work ethic. She makes sure I'm in compliance as the principal with the final decision to approve spending and other tasks," Brown said. "Ms. Clayton possess several positive attributes.  However, her trustworthiness, professionalism, resourcefulness, responsiveness and follow-up are important key factors that any leader would appreciate."