Some people have a way of making work feel less like a job and more like a community. Mexayra “Mexie” Ortiz is one of those people. As the Office Assistant in Student Services, she is known not only for her exceptional organizational skills but also for the energy, kindness, and support she brings to her team. Since 2011, Mexie has been an essential part of the School District of Lancaster, ensuring that processes run efficiently while making sure those around her feel valued and appreciated.
But her story did not start there. Born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Mexie attended Washington Elementary before moving to Puerto Rico, where she pursued higher education. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English as a Second Language – Elementary Level from Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico – Recinto de Ponce. In 2007, she made the decision to return to Lancaster, seeking greater opportunities for her family and herself.
A Career Defined by Dedication and Growth
Mexie’s career in the district began in 2011 as a Caretaker in the Childcare Department at JP McCaskey. From the start, she demonstrated a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and an ability to connect with others. She quickly made an impression, and over time, she took on new responsibilities that allowed her to expand her skills and grow professionally.
Her path was not linear, but each role she held brought her closer to where she is today. She took on positions as a site director for before and after-school programs at Ross Elementary, a paraeducator, an ISS (In-School Suspension) coordinator, and a building assistant. With every transition, she gained new insights into the needs of students and staff, which she now applies in her current role.
As Office Assistant in Student Services, Mexie serves as the backbone of the department, ensuring that multiple district leaders have the administrative support they need.
One of her greatest strengths is her ability to streamline systems, organize processes, and ensure that tasks are completed efficiently. By handling administrative responsibilities with precision, she allows school and district leaders to focus on higher-level priorities, ultimately benefiting students and families.
More Than an Office Assistant: A Source of Encouragement and Connection
What Mexie loves most about her job is the ability to make a difference. She finds deep satisfaction in creating order from chaos, streamlining processes, and making her colleagues’ workdays smoother. Knowing that her efforts remove administrative burdens from others and contribute to a more efficient, well-run office brings her a sense of fulfillment.
But it’s not just about the work, it’s about the people. Mexie shares a special bond with her colleagues, including Yulissa, Alma, Jessica, Jen, Stephanie, and Lisa, who make the workplace feel more like family. From sharing coffee and tea breaks to exchanging jokes that lighten the day, these friendships remind her why she loves coming to work. The best part? They support each other, celebrate each other’s wins, and uplift one another through challenges.
She is a positive force in the workplace, someone who actively fosters a culture of appreciation and inclusivity. She has an innate ability to make people feel seen and valued, whether through a small gesture of kindness or a well-planned gathering to bring the team together.
She regularly coordinates staff breakfasts and lunches, organizes team-building activities, and finds ways to celebrate her colleagues. These efforts create an atmosphere where people feel appreciated and supported, strengthening workplace relationships and morale.
Her presence alone has a way of brightening the room. She is widely recognized for her signature greeting, “Good morning! How YOU doing?”, delivered with warmth and sincerity. No matter how stressful the day might be, that simple interaction has a way of reminding her colleagues that they are valued and that they are part of a team that cares about one another.
A Network of Support and Gratitude
Mexie has dedicated herself to supporting others, but she never forgets those who have supported her. She credits Jassinya Alvarado, Tara Tobias, Stephanie Thomas, Nilsa Garcia, and Mary Cunningham for mentoring her, providing guidance, and encouraging her to reach for more.
She reflects on how these women saw potential in her even when she doubted herself. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without them,” Mexie reflects. “They saw something in me that I didn’t always see in myself. They encouraged me, trained me, and helped me become the person I am today.”
Their encouragement and investment in her success gave her the confidence to take on new responsibilities and grow in her role. For Women’s History Month, she honors them for their leadership, wisdom, and belief in her. She also acknowledges the influence of her mother, who always encouraged her to push forward and trust in her abilities. The lessons she learned from these women continue to shape how she approaches her work and how she supports others in their own professional journeys.
A Lasting Impact on SDoL
Even though her work is no longer centered in the classroom, Mexie has left an impression on students and families. She recalls the joy of working as a paraeducator, where she helped students learn and grow. Many of those students still recognize her today, stopping to tell her, “Mexie, I remember you!”
Parents also express gratitude for the help she provided during their children’s school years. Whether through administrative support, direct student interaction, or simply being a friendly face in the district, she has touched many lives.
Her advice to others is simple but powerful: “Never give up on your dreams. Don’t let others define your path. Trust in yourself, and keep moving forward.”
Mexayra, you are not only an essential part of Student Services but also an irreplaceable presence in the district as a whole. Your colleagues recognize and appreciate the effort you put into ensuring that operations run smoothly. But more importantly, they value the way you build relationships, create a welcoming atmosphere, and bring people together. The School District of Lancaster is fortunate to have you, and we thank you for your years of service, hard work, and the positive energy you bring every day.