Indialantic mom puts family, community first
Indialantic mom Tina Descovich knows that long-term positive change starts in K-12 classrooms. A Brevard native, Descovich graduated from Satellite High and is still involved in Brevard's public schools. She volunteers her time at her kids' schools, Indialantic Elementary and Hoover Middle, and is running for a school board seat in District 3.
Descovich's passion for education is rooted in wanting to reform the way Brevard kids are tested. As the founder of Opt Out Brevard, a group that advocates for more local oversight in student assessments, she has pushed for and seen changes at the state level.
"Yes, we need to assess our students, but decisions about our students in Brevard County need to be made in Brevard County," Descovich said.
She's also an active volunteer at Sally's House, Brevard Rescue Mission, Sally's Friends and the Women's Center Guild. For the past two years, Descovich has served as the volunteer coordinator for the Melbourne Air Show — a role that included managing 650 volunteers.
In her day job, Descovich advises the public relations and customer service for Chatbooks, a photo book company that uses digital prints.
She met her husband, Derek, 12 years ago when they were working on a Northrop Grumman project. Today, they have a combined family that includes five children ages 7 to 31.
Question: Describe yourself in three words.
Answer: I am hard-working, principled and blessed. Amazing how often the first two lead to the third.
Q: What is one lesson you've learned since becoming a mom?
A: Over the years, I have learned the importance of our children having good role models. They need great teachers, coaches and neighbors to influence them — in addition to dedicated parents.
Q: How do your kids make you proud?
A: I am blown away when my children notice the small needs of others and find ways to serve them. I have so many stories I could share that show their real compassion and empathy for others. They have participated in service projects with us and suggested some of their own around the holidays that we have undertaken as a family.
Q: What do you do for "me" time?
A: For the past five years, I have met with my workout girls at 5:20 a.m. at least three times a week. Yes, we exercise, but we also have built beautiful friendships and have supported each other through some difficult times. That being said, there is nothing like sitting on the beach, sticking your feet in the sand, taking a deep breath and enjoying the beautiful place we are blessed to call home.
Q: What would you tell the "You" from 10 years ago?
A: When you are in the middle of raising little ones, you think you will never forget a certain moment, but time does fade those memories. Take pictures, write in your journal, record videos and cherish those memories.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: My friend Dorothy. She just turned 90 years old and is still living life to the fullest. Her husband passed away several years ago, and she has not slowed down one bit. She is managing all her investment properties herself. She supports many charities in the community. She is selfless and gives a helping hand every chance she gets. Dorothy volunteered for years with PREVENT! of Brevard, started Sally's Friends Guild and has raised a family with four children, 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Q: Where are your favorite places to visit in Brevard County?
A: The beaches in the south end of the county are our favorite. We love Kennedy Space Center, but we do not get there enough. The Brevard Zoo is always a big hit. Also, we love Bizarro's pizza on the Indialantic boardwalk and Del's Freeze for ice cream.
Q: What is your dream family vacation?
A: My husband and I share a passion for history and genealogy. One hobby I have is researching my family history, and I have built a family tree with more than 500 names. My dream vacation would be to take my family to Europe to visit all our ancestral homes in Italy, Poland, Germany and Ireland.
Q: How would your kids describe you?
A: I'm that embarrassing mom that won't stop singing in the car. The mom that cheers a little too loud at their sporting events. William won't even sit next to me at Braden's basketball games, because I cheer too loud. They get embarrassed, but I'm pretty sure deep down they love it.
Q: What advice would you give to a new parent?
A: Don't spend time comparing yourself to other moms and what they are doing. Raise your family with a good value system and teach them to live those values. Always be there for your children to help them weather the storms they'll face growing up in today's world.
Q: What is your definition of a Turbo Mom?
A: She is a mom that puts her family first while making time to contribute to the community. For some moms, that is developing their own talents, seeking employment or volunteering in their community. Women can have it all. They just can't have it all at once. When I am a mom, I am the best I can be. When a business and community leader, I am also the best I can be. With the kids growing up and in school, ensuring their education is the best it can and should be is now my focus.