Third Grade Teacher

My name is Melissa Hess, and I am proud to be a part of the CATA team! I was born and raised in Ohio. I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from The Ohio State University, and my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (P-3) from Ashland University. In addition, I am certified as a Third Grade Reading Guarantee teacher. This will be my fifth year teaching, and my second year at CATA.

I changed careers after 10 years because I needed a job that made me feel good when I came home at the end of the day. I love teaching children, helping them find their voice, and watching them grow up before my eyes. My passion within teaching is motivating children to become independent and lifelong learners. One of the best parts of teaching is helping children learn to love reading and progress in their writing skills. I foster a family-centered classroom where students are respectful of each other by encouraging them to think, share, and have fun! I look forward to an amazing year filled with curiosity, learning and most important technology!!! This past year I had amazing experiences with my students and their families. I believe that parents and children need to work together as a team, especially in this new learning model we are currently moving to. My parents were open to change that came about last year, and we worked together as a team to provide the best learning experience possible for the children. The dedication CATA parents have to their children’s education is amazing.