LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Melissa Spaulding was nominated by her colleague, Jaimie Lee.

Ms. Spaulding is an exceptional educator who goes above and beyond for all her students and colleagues. She is kind, compassionate, and intelligent as an educator. Ms. Spaulding is very knowledgeable about special education law and accommodations that can help students succeed. Students love to spend time with her because she builds fantastic relationships that create trust, and they are eager to learn from and with her.

Ms. Spaulding's classroom is warm and welcoming. She holds the students to a high standard so they show progress in their learning, both academically and socially-emotionally! She has many students with different needs and creates resources for each student's level and interests. Students feel loved and cared for by her, even those she does not directly work with. No matter how old the students get, they still have a connection with her and can trust that they can come to her with anything.

"When I first started teaching in this school district, Melissa was my partner teacher and mentor. I had never taught Kindergarten before and was nervous coming into this age. Melissa went above and beyond to take me under her wing and mentor me. She helped me with the curriculum, shared her resources, and answered all my questions while helping me with my worries. She has helped me tremendously in my teaching career, and I know that I can always go to her if I need help, guidance, support, or just someone to talk to. Melissa is an extraordinary teacher, colleague, and individual," said Lee.