A few weeks ago, I asked students around the district to nominate a teacher for recognition that has had a huge impact on their lives. The responses were every bit encouraging, inspiring, and thoughtful.
Over the next few weeks, my team and I will be sharing these nominations on social media, and the teachers will receive a Certificate of Recognition from the General Assembly for their incredible work and service to the community.
Today’s recognition is Ms. Melissa Jackson, a Family and Consumer Science Teacher at Stark County High School. Here’s what one of her students had to say about her and the impact she’s had on her students, fellow teachers, and the community:
“I am writing this email to nominate a teacher that has made an impact on my life, Ms. Jackson. Ms. Jackson is a Family and Consumer Science teacher at our facility. I never took a class of hers until this year, as I am currently learning Consumer Economics & Personal Finance. I have known her through Student Council as she is our advisor.
Ms. Jackson has made me become the compassionate leader I am forming into! I first joined Student Council, not knowing if I should continue to be in the council or not. She allowed us students to voice our concerns, help our community in beneficial ways, and be the fun, outgoing teacher she is. She used to own a local coffee shop as well, which is cool to know about her! She is a mom of three and has raised nice children. In her classroom, there are never bad days. I have never heard a student in our school say they do not like her as a teacher.
Even if a student enters her room in a bad mood, they will leave with their head up and happy. She always checks in on her students and is always there for us if needed. She is full of laughs and they are contagious. Truly, she is the teacher that builds a student body together. She creates a positive atmosphere in her classroom, making students eager for her class. I have been invited to go on leadership conferences and learn more about working as a team and being compassionate, thoughtful leaders thanks to her.
I was recently given a Pride and Excellence Award for leadership as I stepped up in the face of adversity and helped out a student in need. Without her invitation to these leadership conferences, I am not sure if I would have naturally. My natural instincts kicked in and was recognized from my community. Ms. Melissa Jackson is a teacher everyone wants to have, which is why I am nominating her today. She truly is an incredible teacher who helps shape her students socially for our future.”
Thank you so much for the nomination, and thank you Ms. Jackson for brightening your students’ days and for being such an incredible leader at Stark County High School!