The office of Lincoln Elementary School runs with quiet precision. Phones ring, children’s voices rise and fall in the hallways, and behind the scenes, routines unfold that keep everything moving in rhythm. Holding the center of that rhythm is Cindy Bushmire, a longtime staff member who has recently stepped into the role of secretary to the principal.

Cindy has worked at Lincoln for 15 years in various support roles, but this latest chapter is one that brings her full circle. “I’ve always had a connection to this building,” she says. “I like the pace, and I like the people. Everyone here is invested in making sure kids get off to a great start.”

Lincoln serves approximately 500 of Macomb’s youngest learners, from Kindergarten through second grade. These are the years where foundational skills take root—academically, socially, emotionally. And because of that, the work being done here requires not only expertise, but care. Cindy sees it every day, in every room.

“People step in when something needs to be done,” she says. “Everyone pitches in. It really is a team.”

That team includes not only teachers and specialists, but paraprofessionals, custodians, cafeteria staff, and a leadership team committed to supporting both students and the adults who serve them. Cindy’s work often puts her at the intersection of it all—balancing administrative needs, coordinating substitute coverage, and managing the rhythms of a busy school day.

Cindy’s wide-ranging experience gives her both a strong work ethic and a flexible mindset. “You just do what needs to be done,” she says. “If someone needs help, you help. If something’s not right, you try to make it better.”

It’s a perspective that’s deeply valued at Lincoln, where consistency and calm can make all the difference in a child’s day.

Cindy also has a unique view of how the school has changed over the years. She’s watched the student population grow more diverse, particularly as families from across the world—some connected to nearby Western Illinois University—make Macomb their home.

“We have children come in who may speak limited English,” she says. “And in a matter of months, they’re speaking fluently and helping others. It’s really something.” Cindy continues, “The technology upgrades at Lincoln have made a big difference. Moving from paper report cards to digital ones—and handling course programming and registration online—has saved so much time. It makes my day more efficient and much more family-friendly.”

That spirit of mutual support extends beyond the students. Cindy is quick to point out the support she’s received from other staff across the district. “They’ve been incredibly helpful,” she says. “Everyone works together—there’s a real sense of connection.”

What makes Lincoln special, she says, is the sense that no one is doing the work alone. Whether it’s a teacher stepping in to support a colleague or a group of students helping each other, there’s an underlying ethic of care that defines the building.

That ethic starts early—and for many families, Lincoln is their first point of contact with the district. “We get to be the welcoming face,” Cindy says. “And that’s important.”

It’s clear that Cindy takes that responsibility seriously. From greeting nervous parents at the door to solving problems behind the scenes, she embodies the steady presence that makes Lincoln feel welcoming and like a second home.

“I like the people here,” she says. “And I like knowing we’re helping kids start strong.”

For Lincoln’s students and staff alike, that strong start is possible in part because of people like Cindy—people who listen, who notice, and who show up each day ready to contribute. Quietly. Consistently. And with genuine care.