Ms. Katie Melgaard was highlighted this month with our Staff Spotlight.
Congratulations Ms. Melgaard.
What inspired you to work in education?
I enjoyed tutoring classmates in high school. I really enjoy explaining concepts to people and helping them see how interesting the world is. It wasn’t the career I first thought I would go into, but I can’t imagine doing anything else!
Tell us a little bit about your family (kids, pets, etc.)
My classroom has some plants, fish, and a leopard gecko. At home my husband and I have a salt water aquarium with coral and fish.
Who has had the greatest impact on your life and why?
One great influence on me was my dad. He taught me to slow down and appreciate nature. We would go on a lot of walks and bike rides down by the river.
What is the most rewarding part of working at MCC?
I love the students and staff here at MCC. I love the size and the variety of opportunities to teach and coach/advise. I think one of the most rewarding aspects is getting to know the students in multiple classes and through multiple extracurricular activities.
What is one fun fact that students and colleagues might not know about you?
I went to Bismarck High School in North Dakota and their mascot is the demon. So I was a “demon” in high school.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of school?
I really enjoy bike riding and going on hikes through nature. I also enjoy reading, watching TV, and jigsaw puzzles.
What is your go-to comfort food or favorite meal?
I really enjoy steak and baked potato.
How do you hope to make a difference here at MCC?
I want every student to feel valued, appreciated, and welcomed. It’s also really important to me that students feel like they can be successful in their classes. I hope I get those points across to them every day.
What do you enjoy most about our school community?
I love the many different ways that everyone is involved in our school community. I feel that all the staff are interested in helping students succeed. I like that the students are often in multiple activities or have multiple interests and enjoy participating in all the events.
What is one piece of wisdom you would like to share?
Always keep an open mind and keep learning!