Time for a Little Pet-working

Behind every great person, there is someone (or something) that loves them, supports them and gives them reasons to smile. In many cases, that someone may be a parent; spouse; partner; sibling; child or friend. But for some of our employees, it is a furry, scaly or even slithery addition to their households.

We introduce you to a few furry (and not so furry) friends of our fellow employees. Some exotic, some not – but all important members of households across the district.

Jocelyn + Peppermint (Age: 3)

Guinea Peppermint is one of six in Joycelyn LeStourgeon's family. This furry addition was added to the household of the Bay Meadows Elementary first-grade teacher two years ago. Resembling the peppermint candy, he was named accordingly, with a pink streak going down his body.

Pamela + Indy (Age: 15)

More than a decade ago, Teacher of the Deaf and ESE Instructional Support Pamela Fisher wanted a pet that was unique yet low maintenance. In her 4-foot ball python, Indy, she found just that. A few years ago, he was featured as a part of Fisher's Cleopatra Halloween costume. Causing quite the commotion, the two slithered to the top, winning the contest.

Named after "Indiana Jones" (for his love of snakes – NOT), Fisher says Indy is known for his great hugs and calming effect.

Bonnie + Schroeder (Age: 35)

Since 1986, Schroeder, a yellow-naped Amazon parrot, has traveled across the United States with owner Bonnie Peabody of Deerwood Elementary. The Varying Exceptionalities teacher has owned smaller birds in the past but always dreamed of owning a parrot. She acknowledges that the breed can be difficult pets due to their need for lots of attention but also notes they can be very affectionate.

Hand raised and weaned within the Peabody home, Schroeder has been a part of the family for more than 35 years and is known for his love of singing.

For the past 5½ years, Orange County Virtual School Resource Teacher Diane Davitt has been the proud owner of an American paint horse. Affectionately known as LeDoux (after country music star Chris LeDoux), Davitt considers him the perfect horse.

"He is kind and gentle, talented and versatile!" she said.

LeDeoux was originally trained for cowboy mounted shooting and has competed in dressage competitions. The pair proudly ride as part of a patriotic drill team and recently rode in the Deland Veterans Day and Port Orange Christmas parades.

Angela + Napoleon (Age: 6), Lucy (Age: 2), Grogu (Age: 4 months) and Daytona (Age: 6)

You've heard of lions and tigers and bears, I'm sure. But what do you say of a mini pig, axolotl, gecko and turtle… Oh my! Napoleon, Lucy, Grogu and Daytona are beloved four-legged family members belonging to Angela West, fourth-grade teacher at Laureate Park Elementary.

Ranging in ages from four months to 6 years old, West has owned all except for Lucy since they were babies. Considered her most interesting pet, Lucy is an aquatic salamander who walks along the bottom of a tank and can regenerate limbs lost in the wild.

In addition to these pets, West also owns chickens, one of which hatched in her classroom three years ago.

Sherleen + Drogon (Age: 3) and Khalessi (Age: 3)

While many people don't like reptiles due to fear or lack of understanding, Spring Lake Elementary Teacher Shereleen Seary Cruz finds her two bearded dragons the perfect pets for her lifestyle and personality. Drogon and Khalessi are quiet members of Cruz's family and often accompany them on outof-home adventures.

The two also have been featured on the Lake Mary Petsmart's Instagram page, have accounts of their own and have won a couple of contests. Although sweet most of the time, Cruz says they can be a bit judgemental, giving the occasional side eye. She says they also enjoy sunbathing; going to the farmers market; participating in 5Ks; cuddling; and even the occasional game of dress up.

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