Take Five with Edna Godinez: School Clerk at Taylor Elementary School

Take Five is a series that highlights some of the many members of the CPS community who are going above and beyond for our schools. If you know someone who is making a difference, nominate them to be featured here.

In honor of School Clerk Appreciation Day, we’re excited to spotlight the amazing Ms. Edna Godinez at Taylor Elementary School! As a school clerk, Ms. Godinez is one of the first people students, staff, and families see when they arrive at Taylor. Every day, she strives to create a warm and welcoming environment by building relationships in her school community.

Ms. Godinez has always worked in schools—originally in the classroom with a background in bilingual education. In 2017, the opportunity to become an assistant clerk at Taylor arose, and she took the job. After three years, and in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, she then became the school’s bilingual clerk. Ms. Godinez believes that experience in the classroom helps her support her colleagues better, as well as giving her valuable communication skills that she uses every day while working with students and families. 

Read on to learn more about Ms. Godinez and her work!

What is your favorite part of your job?

The students! I love seeing the joy on their faces, and being able to make sure they feel seen and supported. They’re always so excited when I know all of their names. I also just love my school—go, Panthers!

What piece of advice would you give to a new clerk?

Build trust with your parents, students, and staff. Your communication skills are valuable! And make sure you take care of yourself and take time to rest and recharge on breaks.

What do you enjoy most about your fellow clerks?

Our job is a lot of work, but we have a thriving clerk community. There is always someone willing to help out, and there is no such thing as a wrong question!

What is one lesson you've learned throughout your CPS career?

I’ve learned that we never stop learning.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I have two sons, a nine-year-old and a five-year-old. I love spending time with them, and a lot of my time outside of work is spent taking them to practices and activities! I also love to travel. I’m from Mexico, and we are planning on spending this whole summer there so my children can learn more about their culture.