By Laurie Lechlitner
InkFreeNews

Wesley Melanson

AKRON — “I have many fond memories of my time at Tippecanoe Valley High School,” said Wesley Melanson, Akron. “I remember in my senior year, when we beat Rochester High in the Bell game and got to take the traveling trophy. I remember winning the Wawasee basketball sectionals when I was a senior. Of course, graduation day is a high point for all seniors. For me, it was our last hurrah. I had traveled with some of those students from kindergarten through 12th grade. To think that I’m coming back to teach at Valley fills my heart with anticipation.”

Melanson is a 2019 graduate of TVHS.

Jeff Shriver, Melanson’s football coach at TVHS, was a mentor and friend through high school.

“It’s from positive relationships, like I had with coach, that I was drawn to teaching,” said Melanson. “I also watched the great relationships that developed between many other students and teachers. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of young people — lend a listening ear and helping hand.”

Melanson graduated from Bluffton University, Ohio.

“I majored in middle childhood education. Since working with middle school students through the work-based learning program when I was in high school, I knew I wanted to become a teacher,” Melanson said.

After getting his bachelor’s degree, Melanson originally thought he’d be teaching in Fishers, close to Indianapolis. Instead, he applied at TVHS.

“The cost of living is very high in Fishers. When I got a call from Principal Kresca and was told I got the job at Valley, I was thrilled. I’m very excited to get a job in my own hometown. I’ll be working with people I’ve known for years,” he said.

He’ll be teaching high school math and algebra at the middle school.

He’s looking forward to watching his students grow.

“I want to see them develop as good citizens, growing emotionally and academically,” Melanson said.

But academic growth is not enough to satisfy Melanson.

“I want to assist my students in becoming helpful people. I’m hoping they will spot others in need and lend a helping hand. We all need assistance at times. I want to help them solve their own problems, motivating them to reach out and help others who are going through rough times.” Melanson said.

One of the challenges he anticipates as a new teacher is getting through the ebb and flow of the classroom.

“I need to get through the curriculum as I adjust to the routine, realizing that I’ll have both good and bad days. I’ll strive to be perceptive enough to realize when a lesson is not working and flexible enough to tailor it to the needs of my students,” he said.

Melanson realizes teaching is not easy.

“There are days some of the students would rather not be in a classroom. But the teacher has to have the patience and persistence to continue. I believe that to be a successful teacher, one needs to be passionate about teaching and about their students and classroom. If they do not love teaching, they need to be in another profession,” he said.

When the days turn warm, Melanson visits the golf course. He loves watching football and sporting events with his dad and brother. He also enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends.

“I’m excited about my first teaching job. I’m even more thrilled it’s at Valley. I feel right at home,” he stated.