When you set out to recognize some amazing women in our city, that list cannot be complete with recognizing Laurie Ponos, an educator in our schools who has been kindergarten teacher to so many of our kids including yours truly. But her influence extends far beyond the classroom. Laurie has always been a person of kindness, of class and a person who cares.
Her ways influence those around her to be the same and her commitment to always be the best person she can be makes her and her family pillars in the commUNITY.
Before coming to Scotts Valley, where did you live?
Before coming to SV, we lived in the Willow Glen area in San Jose. I taught at Sartorette Elementary in the Cambrian School District for 10 years. Prior to that we lived in Long Beach (where I got my second teaching credential). While living there, I taught for the South Whittier School District for 3 years. I also lived in San Diego but we are originally from Arlington Heights, IL. I graduated from Illinois State University with a BS in Elementary Education and a PE minor.
What brought you to Scotts Valley and how long have you lived here?
We decided to move to SV to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and grow as a family. We instantly fell in love with the beauty of SV and its friendly community. We have lived in SV for 26 years and hope to stay here forever.
What do you love most about living here?
We LOVE it here because it is a great place to raise kids! Our 2 children attended Brook Knoll, SVMS and SVHS. I’m happy to say we have ALL made lifelong friends along the way. We also love it here because we can walk to the hiking trails in Henry Cowell and we are an 8 minute drive to the beach. We are so grateful for Scotts Valley’s community support! There’s really nothing quite like it.
Please describe what drives and motivates you to do more for others and for the people of Scotts Valley.
I am driven and motivated to do all that I can for others in our community because I am so inspired by my family, friends, Vine Hill coworkers and my STUDENTS. It feels good to do good! I encourage my students to do their best and be their best so I try to be an inspirational role model. Kindness is my platform and classroom theme.