Chandler Public Schools

Our back to school teacher feature is Melissa Smith, a 2^nd grade teacher at East Side Elementary.  She’s been teaching for 13 years, eight of those in Chandler.  A CHS alumna, Melissa grew up in Chandler where both her parents worked as educators.  She received her degree from UCO in Edmond.  

Q  What led you to teaching?
A  Both my parents were educators and I’ve always enjoyed working with kids.  I saw firsthand growing up the powerful impact teachers could have on students.

Q  Did you have any key mentors or people who influenced who you are, and/or your decision to become an educator? 
A  My parents were very influential in my decision to teach.  They both were very positive role models not only to me, but their students and players.

Q  What would you say most motivates you to teach? 
A  My students motivate me every day.  I love to see their faces light up when they finally grasp a concept or how engaged they become when learning new things.

Q  What are you most excited or passionate about? 
A   I love to see students get excited about learning.  It’s also very rewarding when you see how you’ve made a difference in a child’s life.

Q  What do you find most challenging about being a teacher? 
A  Some of the biggest challenges we face are funding and limited resources.  Thankfully, we are extremely blessed that several organizations and businesses have provided supplies and grants for teachers.

Q  What's the best thing to happen since you started teaching? 
A  Former students remembering me and telling me how much they enjoyed being in my class

Melissa’s daughter Blaklei is in 3^rd grade at Park Road. She enjoys spending free time with her family and friends, and watching Blaklei play sports.