Donna Manuel: 'I love being around kids. It just makes me happy'

 

Donna Manuel

Office Support Clerk

Olson Elementary School

Donna Manuel’s journey at Olson Elementary School in Marina began 17 years ago when her twins started kindergarten. Having been a stay-at-home mom, the transition to working at Olson was driven by her deep love for children. 

“I love kids. I love being around kids. It just makes me happy,” Donna shares. Starting as a playground supervisor, Donna quickly became an integral part of the school community. Over the years, she transitioned into various roles, eventually finding her calling as the office support clerk.

"I was talked into trying attendance, and I love it. I love my families, love talking to people, love my kids. I just love the principal, love being here," she says with a heartfelt smile.

As the attendance clerk, Donna’s role goes far beyond just marking students present or absent. She takes it upon herself to reach out to families, checking in on them, and offering support whenever needed. 

"I call into the classrooms, double-check everybody's here, call the families, and find out why they don't come to school. If they need any help getting here or any resources, I point them in the right direction," she explains.

For Donna, these conversations often go deeper than just attendance. She finds herself offering guidance and support to families facing significant challenges. 

"It gets pretty personal. I've witnessed a lot over the years—people living in campers, no gas, no food, no money. It's very sad," she says.

Donna believes in the impact of her work, reflecting on the difference she’s made in the lives of countless families.

“I get told on many occasions how I’ve helped them, and thank you for just talking and listening. Just listening to what they have to say, believing in them, and reaching out,” she shares.

Donna’s commitment to Olson Elementary is unwavering. She speaks fondly of the school, describing it as a "loving place" where everyone, from the principal to the teachers, is deeply invested in the well-being of the students. 

"If your principal's heart is in it, we're gonna do good," she says, expressing her admiration for principal Drew Coleman.

Looking back on her nearly two decades at Olson, Donna feels a deep connection to the school and its community. 

“I’ll stay here until I retire. I have no plans to go anywhere else,” she says.