Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of Lansing USD469. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Kylie Mendez, PreK Childcare Teacher
Question: How long have you worked in Lansing USD469?
Answer: I have worked in the district for about 4.5 years!
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I graduated from Lansing High School in 2021. I am graduating from Wichita State University on December 14th with my bachelor’s in elementary and early childhood education. I work in the Early childhood building in the childcare side. I have been one of the lead PreK teachers for about 4 years now. I absolutely love helping the little ones grow and learn. It’s so rewarding as 4 & 5 year olds love to learn. I help prepare them for kindergarten.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: What I enjoy most about my role is building relationships with my students. Each day brings new moments of learning, laughter, and growth. I especially love seeing former students and knowing I’ve been a small part of their journey, whether they’re stopping by my classroom with younger siblings or I run into them at a school event.
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: In my free time I enjoy shopping, traveling, and spending time with my husband, family, and friends.
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: I have 7 siblings, 5 sisters and 2 brothers!
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: Out of all my experiences, the ones that stand out most are when a student perseveres through a challenge and finally understands. That spark of confidence and the smile that follows is priceless, it’s the kind of moment that fills my teacher heart.
Last year, one of my students was working on an activity he found really challenging. He asked for help and said, “I can’t do it yet, but I will be able to.” Hearing him use that mindset was such a proud moment.
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: One piece of advice I’d offer is to never give up, even when things feel challenging. I’ve always taught my students to say, “I can’t do it yet,” because a growth mindset makes all the difference. Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you, and don’t hesitate to reach out when you need help. You’re never meant to do it alone.