Lori Oliff wants her kindergarten students at Greenland Pines Elementary to feel at home.

“So as soon as they come in the room, it just feels like an extension of their home,” she said.

For Oliff, that connection is personal. She grew up attending Duval County Public Schools in the Mandarin area. Today, her two children attend the school where she teaches.

“I love being able to contribute to the school system that I grew up in,” she said.

Oliff began her career in insurance before switching to education during the COVID-19 pandemic. After four years at Greenland Pines, she describes teaching as her dream job.

“I couldn’t imagine doing anything different,” she said.

Her approach centers on making learning fun while helping students work through challenges. The reward comes when concepts click and children recognize their progress.

“I love seeing the growth that the kids make throughout the year,” she said.

Interested in joining Team Duval? Walk-in interviews are available from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday at 1701 Prudential Drive in Jacksonville. Explore opportunities and apply at jobs.duvalschools.org.