We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Layla Singh to the Hillside Academy team as our Part-Time Office Manager! While this is her first year in the role, Ms. Layla is no stranger to Hillside. Since 2012, she has been a dedicated volunteer, always ready to jump in and lend a hand. In the 2024–2025 school year, she began officially supporting the front office as a substitute and now joins us more regularly as a warm and welcoming presence.

Ms. Layla holds an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree from Edmonds College and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources from California State University, Sacramento. She brings several years of experience in HR and leadership roles, including serving as a Senior Human Resources Coordinator at E*Trade Financial, a Store Manager at Gary’s Tuxedo Shop, and a Shift Supervisor at Starbucks. For the past 18 years, she’s focused her time and heart on raising her family—a role that has shaped her deep sense of care, connection, and commitment to community.

When asked what drew her back into the professional world, Ms. Layla shared that the timing felt right and that Hillside—already close to her heart—was the perfect place to begin this new chapter. “I especially love seeing the kids’ smiling faces and receiving sweet hellos throughout the day,” she says.

Her personal and professional philosophy is rooted in communication, connection, and care. Whether she’s helping a parent at the front desk, supporting staff, or lending a listening ear, Ms. Layla brings warmth, attentiveness, and a big-hearted approach to her work.

Outside of Hillside, Ms. Layla enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and she has a lifelong love of dance, especially ballet and tap. Her greatest passion is traveling, inspired by her grandfather’s belief that seeing the world is one of life’s greatest gifts. Her most memorable trip so far? A family safari in Africa, which she calls “life-changing.” Fun fact: she once went skydiving—and while it was thrilling, she decided once was enough!

Layla was born and raised in Kitsap County, WA. She and her husband (a proud Nigerian-American whose family roots trace back to Northern India) have lived in Duvall for the last 17 years. Their two children are Hillside alumni, and their family remains deeply connected to the community. Also—if she looks familiar, it’s because she’s the sister of Ms. Sylvan Lumsden! The two are often mixed up by students and parents alike, and she welcomes the confusion with a smile. Her guiding motto: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
We are so lucky to have Ms. Layla with us this year—please join us in giving her a warm Hillside welcome!