For decades, Mill Creek resident, Salli Smith has been a steady and welcoming presence at Woodside Elementary—a familiar face to generations of students, families, and staff. She began her journey in February 1988, before internet, email, and cellphones—something she now says is hard to imagine. With her daughter starting kindergarten, Salli took a position as a Paraeducator in a life skills classroom. Four years later, in 1992, she stepped into the Office Manager role, where she has remained ever since.

What began as a job quickly became something more. “I truly have the best job,” Salli shares. She loves the students and the daily interactions, especially the moments when she hears, “Is that Miss Salli?” Over the years, those same students have grown up and returned—first as older students and now as parents bringing their own children to Woodside. Those full-circle moments have been among the most rewarding parts of her career.

Her first days on the job came with a lesson she never forgot. “I learned very fast that kids can smell weakness,” she recalls. “I had to pretend like I knew what I was doing.” Even now, she says she is still learning. One thing that has stayed constant is the understanding that every interaction matters. Working in a school means always being a role model, and even small actions can leave a lasting impression. Over the years, the role of an office manager has changed, especially when it comes to school safety. “In the old days, we took safety for granted,” Salli explains. “Now, keeping our school safe is our number one priority.” While technology has brought many changes, it has also made her appreciate the simplicity of earlier days.

At the heart of her work is a simple belief: people may not remember what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel. She carries that into every interaction, whether helping a student or listening to a concerned parent. She approaches each situation with empathy, knowing parents are focused on their children, and that even challenging moments are opportunities to show respect and care.

There is no such thing as a typical day in an elementary school office. Salli often starts her mornings wondering what the day will bring. It is part of what has kept the job meaningful all these years. Ask Salli what she loves most, and her answer is simple: the families. Their appreciation has meant everything to her. During one of the most difficult times in her life, after the loss of her husband, the Woodside community stepped in immediately to support her and her family. It was a moment that reinforced just how special this community is.

That sense of connection defines Woodside. Salli has watched generations of families grow up within the school and now sees former students return as parents. She also credits the staff, describing them as more than coworkers. They are lifelong friends who work together to create a positive environment for students. As office manager, she believes her role helps set the tone for the school. It is important that students and families feel welcomed and know that Woodside is a happy place.

Looking back, what Salli is most proud of is simple: feeling loved by so many. As she looks ahead to retirement, she is excited to spend more time with her four grandsons, attending their games, traveling, and enjoying walks along the Mill Creek trails. Still, there is no question what she will miss most. “The kids,” she says. “Life is never boring in elementary.”

For the Mill Creek community, Salli Smith’s impact will be lasting—felt through the generations of students and families who have walked through Woodside’s doors and been greeted by her care and kindness.