Tucked unassumingly into the main hallway is a small office that has both a vast impact on Mitty’s entire population and the campus’s friendliest candy bowl: the main office. Many students pass by it every day without realizing the important behind-the-scenes work happening there. The staff are busy managing schedules and handling the organizational tasks that keep Mitty afloat. They are essential members of the community, bringing warmth, order, and spirit to the campus. Through a spirit of kindness, festive decorations, fun desk setups, and small touches like the well-known candy bowl, the main office tops its work off by creating a welcoming environment for everyone who walks through the door.

The main office is the control center of the school, allowing daily life to run smoothly. The staff handle school schedules, manage parent communication, and track enrollment; however, their contributions go beyond administrative support. They provide community and school spirit through simple gestures such as greeting students and maintaining a friendly environment. In fact, the staff shared that interacting with students, meeting new people, and brightening someone’s day are some of the best parts of the job—even though much of it is administrative. Every “hello” from a student is appreciated, and they are genuinely excited about building connections with everyone who walks through the office.

Only having been at the school for about a year, Ms. Nancy Aguirre, who works as the Executive Assistant, is already known for her pink, fully decorated desk setup. For the school, she mainly handles scheduling and organizational tasks by setting up calendars for Ms. Madia, Mr. Fallis and Mr. Savage. Her involvement goes beyond usual office tasks. She and her coworkers create wonderfully decorated desks, stating that their goal is to create a fun and interactive environment for students. Ms. Aguirre works alongside her close friend, Ms. Johana Diaz Covarrubias (’11), a former monarch who now works on the admissions team answering parent questions, supporting families, and collaborating with various faculty members. She encourages students not to be afraid to come in and ask questions. Her cheerful attitude, passion, and fun personality are clearly seen in the main office through her decorated desk filled with trinkets like Popmart figures and Labubus.

That same sense of creativity and excitement can be seen throughout other parts of the office, like the iconic joke whiteboard and candy bowl. The classic whiteboard started with one student who had to stay after school every day. He would stop by the office and share a “joke of the day.” When he graduated, the staff didn’t let the tradition fade. They kept it going, and now they share daily jokes with everyone who comes in. As small as it sounds, this routine encourages more student interaction and creates a friendly atmosphere in the office. Finally, there’s the candy bowl—a sweet addition to the room. Just a friendly reminder: one piece at a time, please, and ask nicely so that everyone gets a taste of the office’s hospitality.

Overall, the main office plays a crucial part behind the scenes. These staff members ensure the school runs efficiently while also uplifting the community, taking pride in supporting students and faculty each day. The main office is also more than a place to pick up passes or ask questions—it is at the heart of many quiet acts of care. A small thank-you, smile, or joke back can go a long way. Next time you walk by the main office, do not be afraid to step in for a second and start up a conversation. While you are at it, make sure to stop by for the daily joke and spread some positivity and thanks!