Beloved School Office Manager 'Is The Person We Can All Count On'

Temecula, CA — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully, Temecula is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Amanda DeGoede, who nominated Penny Alksnis of Pine Hills Academy TK-6.

What is the school hero’s name?

Penny Alksnis

Where does this school hero work?

Pine Hills Academy TK-6

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

Every school has someone who holds everything together behind the scenes. At JCS Pine Hills, that person is Ms. Penny. Although her title is Office Manager, she is truly so much more. Ms. Penny is the heart of our front office. From welcoming families with a smile, to caring for scraped knees, to managing the endless flow of paperwork and phone calls, she makes sure our school runs smoothly every single day. She is the calm in the middle of the storm, the one who always seems to know the answer, and the person we can all count on no matter what. What makes Ms. Penny a hero is not just what she does, but how she does it—with kindness, patience, and love for every student, parent, and staff member who walks through her door. She has a way of making everyone feel cared for and supported, whether she’s handling a big problem or one of the countless little details that make our school thrive. We are beyond grateful for Ms. Penny. She is not just our Office Manager, she is our everyday hero.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

Co-worker [:

What should your community know about this person?

Every school has someone who holds everything together behind the scenes. At JCS Pine Hills, that person is Ms. Penny. Although her title is Office Manager, she is truly so much more. Ms. Penny is the heart of our front office. From welcoming families with a smile, to caring for scraped knees, to managing the endless flow of paperwork and phone calls, she makes sure our school runs smoothly every single day. She is the calm in the middle of the storm, the one who always seems to know the answer, and the person we can all count on no matter what. What makes Ms. Penny a hero is not just what she does, but how she does it—with kindness, patience, and love for every student, parent, and staff member who walks through her door. She has a way of making everyone feel cared for and supported, whether she’s handling a big problem or one of the countless little details that make our school thrive. We are beyond grateful for Ms. Penny. She is not just our Office Manager, she is our everyday hero.

What three words best describe the school hero?

Dependable. Compassionate. Unstoppable.

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

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