This week's Nido Learner goes to our departing Admissions Officer and Nido’s undercover mascot, Melissa Mo Stenger!

If you’ve passed Mo in the halls, chances are you were met with a warm smile and a high five. Since arriving at Nido in 2016, Mo has made a lasting mark on our school. She began by building the foundation for our High School Learning Support Program, shaping it into the student-centered model we rely on today. Four years later, she stepped into the role of Admissions Officer, continuing to impact the community with her kindness, empathy, and deep commitment to every family.

Now, with heartfelt gratitude and a touch of sadness, we say goodbye as Mo returns to her hometown of Seattle to be closer to her family. Reflecting on her time here, she shared: “Nido is unlike any other place because of its diversity, open-mindedness, and global perspective as seen in its students, staff, and families. It has been an amazing place to be part of a community.”

With almost three decades of experience in education, her passion has always centered around connection and care.  “I’ve always wanted to support students who needed a little extra help—I’ve felt like the mama bird, taking them under my wing,” she says.

Her impact is felt across campus: students of all ages greet her with hugs and smiles. And she remembers every name. Mo’s next chapter will take her to an Elementary School in the US, where she’ll lead another admissions office. She carries with her valuable lessons from Nido: “I’ve learned how powerful a first impression can be, and how every family’s journey is unique.”

Finally, there’s a role that many people may not know she played—but one that brought joy to so many: Juanita, Nido’s eagle mascot. Quietly and without recognition, Mo brought Juanita to life, delighting students with hugs, selfies, and Nido spirit. “Seeing the kids so happy, that might be what I’ll remember the most fondly about Nido.”

Mo truly embodies the Nido values—dedication, community, and a joyful commitment to every student and family she’s met. Thank you, Mo, for all you’ve given to Nido. Seattle is lucky to have you back, and we hope you’ll visit often. You will be deeply missed!