Susan Leo has been an employee with the Sarasota County School District since 2007.  Her positions in the cafeteria and busing transportation created experience working with people having special needs.  These relational interactions had an unexpected, positive impact on her life.  Sue had not had previous exposure to persons with disabilities.  She soon realized she had a false perception about this population.  The personalities, abilities, capabilities and attitudes of these co-workers and students generated a new appreciation and moments of inspiration for Sue. 

During 2015 – 2020 Sue was employed at the Center School of Sarasota in the DAT program for non-verbal, functioning elementary age students. When that program was disbanded, she began working at Laurel Nokomis with the ISS program (In-School Suspension).  While with these students in 2020 – current, Sue was motivated to initiate activity for these middle schoolers with CBI (Community Based Interactions).  She was aware of the value for the public and students alike.

Sue has 2 adult daughters with one pursuing a nursing degree and the other is a business owner.  She is a proud mother!!  She brings her professionalism, enthusiasm and positive nature to Brightest Employment Services.  She heard this statement, and it is inspirational and foundational to her beliefs:

“If you can imagine it, if you can dream it…you can become it.”