Clayton High's Mrs. Melinda Eason is the JCPS Certified Employee of the Month for November 2024!
She has been in education for 23 years and loves serving Johnston County Public Schools. She has worked in many roles throughout her career, including regular education teacher, special education teacher, and now part of the Student Services Team as a student advocate
Mrs. Eason took time to answer some questions on why education was the right profession for her and how she continues to learn everyday.
Why did you choose the role of teaching?
Teaching was an easy career choice for me. Seeing the positive change in students, especially those who may not follow a traditional path of learning, is what makes it all worth it.
What has this profession taught you?
This profession has taught me that no matter where people come from or what experiences they may have, everyone deserves an opportunity to earn their high school diploma. It may not always be easy, but all students need an advocate to create opportunities for them to reach their goals.
How do you create an environment for your students to feel successful as they learn?
As the student advocate, I identify and help find ways to overcome any barrier or obstacles that are in their way. I love celebrating the wins of my students, no matter how small, so that they are able to feel successful.
How do you plan to build on your award winning strategies?
I want to continue to learn more about student success and ways to support students who may have experienced trauma, housing or food insecurity, or other stumbling blocks that may hinder their ability to reach their full potential.
As an educator, why is it important to build relationships with your students? How do you do that in your classroom?
In my role as the student advocate, building relationships is the main part of what I do! Students need to feel that they can have trust in the supports we are willing to provide them. I make sure that students know they are safe emotionally and physically in this space, and then show them ways we can support their goals.
As you continue as an educator, what are your future goals as it relates to education?
I plan to continue to attend professional development so that I can be in the loop of the latest studies and strategies to share with my colleagues. This knowledge can only continue to improve the educational opportunities for all JCPS students.
What advice would you give to those thinking about a career in education?
I would tell them to keep their focus on the children and the impact they are able to make with the direct interaction they have with students each day. It is easy to be distracted by the outside voices and opinions, but ultimately what we do each day with students is what matters.
Congratulations and thank you to Mrs. Eason!