Melissa Watkins, a teacher at Coastal Middle School, is happy to be back in the classroom with her kids.
“I think I’m the most excited, I said me, I’m the first one, I’m coming back," said Watkins in an interview with WTOC's Mike Cihla, who presented her with the Top Teacher award Wednesday, October 28. “I can’t wait to put a piece of paper in front of the child instead of looking at a computer screen all the time,” she continued.
Watkins teaches 7th grade math at Coastal Middle School. She says she loves teaching math and encouraging students when they are doing the right things. She frequently phones parents to let them know that their students are doing well. Watkins says "I want to focus on what’s good and what’s right about a student and not focusing on the negative. It makes it a better day for me and for the kids.”
Assistant Principal Tarangula Scott said Watkins is “our go to person, our cheerleader, for the kids as well as the staff. She gives 100 percent all the time!"
Watkins says one of the most fulfilling things for her is to see kids come back and express appreciation for the confidence she instills. "Because that is more important than a test score. Kids just aren’t test scores. That confidence, if we can have confident children, when they leave this building, ready for high school, that’s what I want,” Watkins said.
Congratulations, Melissa! We are proud of you!
