The Kalama Chamber of Commerce has named Kalama Middle School History Teacher Melissa Wilson as its 2024 School Employee of the Year.
Wilson, a dedicated educator who has served Kalama schools for an impressive 33 years – 25 as a teacher and eight prior as a special education classroom aide – was recognized for her passion for history, commitment to student engagement, and significant contributions to school culture during a Chamber awards banquet in early April.
When asked about the award, Wilson called it “a great honor,” adding that what she enjoys most about her profession is “having a job that has purpose.” Her passion extends specifically to teaching history, a subject she finds captivating for the "connections you can make with old things from our past" and her deep "appreciation for the sacrifices others have made to get us where we are today."
Stacy Jackson, a secretary at the school, enthusiastically praised Wilson, stating, "[She] is a passionate and dedicated educator... With a deep love for the past, she brings history to life in the classroom, engaging her students with stories and experiences of the historical places she has visited."
Beyond her impactful work in the classroom, Wilson is a driving force behind the school spirit at Kalama Middle School and Kalama High School. One of the leaders of the schools’ Culture Club, Jackson noted Wilson’s tireless efforts in "organizing dances, book drives, and the annual school carnival," adding that "you can always spot her at a sporting event, cheering on her students."
"[After the pandemic], it seemed our students had forgotten how to have fun,” Wilson said, reflecting on her dedication to the Culture Club. “So a few of us made an effort to re-engage the student population by offering incentives to show up to events. It worked. Not only did we get fans back in the seats, but staff felt they were contributing to the effort and it made them feel better too. It was a win-win.”
With Wilson’s involvement, the Culture Club has also organized staff activities outside of school to strengthen the relationships between educators and support staff.
“When you have a stronger connection to friends, it makes work a happier place,” she said.
Previous School Employees of the Year include:
Katy Pietsch (2023)
Eric Nerison (2022)
Charlie Newton (2021)
Dennis Watts (2020)
Tammy Smith (2018)
Chris Stone (2017)
Lori Byrnes (2016)
Brynan Shipley (2015)
Jeff Johnson (2014)
Kathy Schmitt (2013)
Jane Delker (2012)
Debbie Merz (2011)
Victoria Wells (2010)
Carrie Lindsay (2009)
Laura Hiatt (2008)
Nate Salisbury (2007)
Tom Eastwood (2006)
Note: The Chamber did not give out a 2019 School Employee of the Year award due to the pandemic.
Related video: Surprising the Kalama Chamber of Commerce's Teacher of the Year at Kalama Middle School