Lansing USD469 Employee Spotlight: LaKrystal McKnight, Elementary SpEd Coordinator
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.
LaKrystal McKnight, Elementary SpEd Coordinator
Question: How long have you worked for Lansing USD469?
Answer: I am new, but returning after being away for the last 8 years :-). I previously worked at LES for 3 years!
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I have been in education for 14 years. I've taught 4th grade, Elementary SLC, and Elementary Interrelated Resource. I've helped lead several school committees and departments over the years. It's my passion to do all we can in our schools to help improve the quality of life for our students. I'm so excited to be back in Lansing this year as a SpEd Coordinator.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: I love so much about my role as a SpEd Coordinator! We have some great kids and some wonderful staff members that I get to support every day! Not only do I get to share resources and tools with teachers, I am also thankful for the opportunity to sit with families and learn about their students! I also absolutely love getting to see our teachers excited and proud of student progress and I truly enjoy getting to hear/ see them share student successes with families!
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: I love crafts, reading, and family/friend time! Game nights are my favorite and trying new brunch spots is a must!
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: I have 2 middle names :-)
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: Getting to be back in Lansing now, it's so awesome to see students I worked with that were in Kinder at the time! They had very few words and struggled to communicate their wants and needs effectively when I first got those kiddos and it's amazing to see them now THRIVING in our High School and LINCS programs thanks to the hard work of Lansing teachers and staff members over the last several years!
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: My hope for our students who receive Special Education students is that we help them to achieve their personal goals!