Recognition: Melissa Anderson receives 2016 Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education

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Melissa Anderson, a volunteer at Ferron Elementary was surprised to learn she was the recipient of the 2016 Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education. She has been a volunteer at Ferron Elementary for 16 years. Karen Huntsman was present and congratulated Anderson on her accomplishment at an assembly held for the entire studentbody. The award was established in 1993 to give thanks to the best teachers, administrators, and volunteers in Utah for continually seeking ways to improve the quality of education in our public school system. Melissa will receive $10,000 donated by Jon M. Huntsman and family. A banquet will be held in May to honor all of the winners. Awards are given to one administrator and two teachers from elementary, middle and high schools, one volunteer, and one special education teacher. Melissa is the daughter of Sweetie and Maurice Anderson of Ferron.
The following is the submission from Mrs. Nielsen’s sixth grade class. We would like to nominate Melissa Anderson for the 2016 Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education in the Volunteer category. Melissa has been a volunteer at our school for the last 16 years, and her influence and guidance have impacted and inspired our students immeasurably.
Melissa was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC), a defect occurring when the muscles of the baby do not fully develop inside the womb. Even though doctors told her parents she would never walk, Melissa, through the sheer determination that we all find inspiring, proved them wrong. Though she requires the aid of leg braces, this hasn’t slowed her down. Melissa also has very limited use of her fingers, hands and arms. Despite this challenge, she has learned to write and even do calligraphy, using her mouth when necessary to accomplish tasks most of us do with ease.
Melissa has donated two days out of her week for 16 years to come to our school and help children with reading. She patiently listens to students read and then assists them in building comprehension skills and in completing their assignments. “When I read with her, I am not nervous because she is really nice, and I know she will help me when I mess up.” (Byron, Student Council Secretary). In addition, she is always on the lookout for articles, videos, etc. to help students connect what they are learning about in school with the world outside the classroom. She has truly helped to foster a love of reading as well as a love of learning in the lives of our students.
Melissa genuinely loves each student. She brings treat bags on every holiday, painstakingly put together with her personal touch to make sure each child feels loved. This year’s Easter Baggies will include glue sticks since she noticed recently that ours are used up. She makes sure that she adds souvenir shopping for her “kids” to each trip agenda, and has brought back gifts for them from places as far away as Hawaii. Students have also enjoyed her company on field trips to Salt Lake City where they’ve toured the zoo, aquarium, and other areas with Melissa joining along in her Jazzy scooter. “She doesn’t think of us as just kids. She is our friend.” (Layce, a 6th grade student).
Melissa is such a positive influence for all of us. She inspires students to keep trying, even when things are difficult. She, by example, teaches that “quit” and “give up” are simply not options. “I admire her because sometimes when something is hard for me, I give up, but Melissa never gives up, even if the going gets rough.” (Autum, a 6th grade student). She encourages students to keep a positive attitude. “Melissa has struggles, as do we all. The way she deals with her struggles is the amazing part. You would think having lots of physical problems would make you mad and grumpy. Melissa never gets mad and doesn’t have a mean temper. She is always kind and considerate.” (Jess, Student Council Vice President).
Melissa also provides an opportunity for students to help and serve her. “Melissa also struggles a bit with things, so we help her. She loves when we help her, and we love helping her, just like she helps us.” (Melanie, a 6th grade student). Each act of kindness is always rewarded with one of Melissa’s homemade stamped and embossed thank you cards.
Melissa’s influence on over 400 students during the last 16 years is profound, and she continues to encourage and inspire. Whether she’s cruising around town in her ladybug-decorated golf cart or out on her daily 1.5 mile walk with full-length leg braces, Melissa greets everyone with a smile and a wave. “She is a perfect example of showing us that even if you have challenges, you don’t let life get you down. She is such a great volunteer for our school. We love her here.” (Dace, Student Council President).
We feel she is an excellent candidate for the Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education.