Leyla Estes, our beloved bookkeeper at Gig Harbor is celebrating her 30 year anniversary working at Gig Harbor High School. I got the chance to talk to her about her time at Gig Harbor and what she loves about her job.  

How has Gig Harbor changed over the years?

When I started at Gig Harbor the enrollment here was 800 students, and now it has almost doubled in size. I love working here.

What’s been your favorite thing about the job?

My favorite thing about the job has been the interaction with the students and staff. Everyone cares about one another and it is such a positive environment to work in. Not sure why some kids are scared of me, I’m really not a grouch.

What did you do before?

My husband and I owned Peninsula Auto Part shop in downtown Gig Harbor. I’ve been bookkeeping for 55 years.

What advice would you have for someone just starting?

Hang in there, it gets better.   

I was so lucky I got the chance to talk to Leyla and get to know her better. Just talking to her you can tell how much she loves the school and students. If you see her around, congratulate her!