Springdale High School educator is an 'All Star Teacher'
Springdale High School teacher Susan Mellon has been knocking it out of the park as a gifted support and enrichment teacher for the past 25 years.
She works with students to make sure they are reaching their full potential by encouraging them to go after their dreams — even if they are out of the box. She routinely takes students to conferences and events across the country and helps them with whatever they may need to succeed in everything from English to robotics.
Because of her dedication, she was named an “All Star Teacher” by the Pirates, Chevron and The Grable Foundation this year. She was one of 18 teachers selected out of hundreds of nominations from across the region.
She was surprised by the award during an assembly Monday with the Pirate Parrot mascot and Pirates in-game host Joe Klimchak. Everyone at the assembly thought they were there for safety training, but quickly realized it was for something else.
“I’m very shocked,” Mellon said. “I had no idea.”
Mellon received $1,000 to spend on her classroom, a customized Pirates jersey, a gift card for herself and tickets to experience a Pirates game from the box seats with her family. She and the other award-winning teachers will be honored during the team’s April 7 game.
Students and colleagues cheered her on as her name was announced.
Senior Michael Zolnierczyk, 18, said Mellon has been his teacher for several years.
“She’s always gone over and above,” he said. “We’re all grateful to have her.”
Fellow teacher Len Herrington said he’s seen Mellon at her very best and, sometimes, at her worst as they’ve worked side-by-side for years.
“I think there is no one here that deserves this more than you do,” he said.
Principal Michele Welter said they are honored to have Mellon at the school.
“She’s a true teacher leader,” she said.
In true Mellon fashion, she planned to use a treasure chest full of prizes she received to give out to her students as prizes and incentives.
“I’m very honored,” she said of the award.
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