TEACHING Excellence
& Student Advocacy
(Dialog, 2017)
To be successful everyone needs at least one person, one person who stands for/with them based on the situations. I am glad that I had you as an instructor because you are that one person for me in my learning/career journey. Thank you for being that person for me.
Hadiatou (student), May 2024
Filmed and edited by Joe Siracky, NorQuest College
"Thank you for leading a space where we felt empowered to learn and challenge ourselves."
MM & Chin (students), April 2025
This term has pushed me to fight with myself at times and to explore the unknown. I think my keyword, I suppose, for the term is "try" because even if I don't get it "right," I'll have learned something. At the same time, I feel like I've gained a lot of confidence in my work as well and I've gotten to learn a lot from the many people around me. You have undoubtedly played a very big role in both pushing me to just go for things even if I'm unsure and in supporting me by encouraging me, providing me with resources and supports, and also providing me with opportunities. I found that I especially appreciate and look up to how when you communicate with others, you are very sincerely, honest, curious and open-minded. You've shared whenever you're unsure about something and you're always looking for ways to support others and get their feedback. When someone is sharing something, you ask questions to delve deeper into their understanding before anything else and you do so in a way that makes it apparent that you're really just looking to understand and not judge.
You've become my role model and I'm hoping I'll get to learn a lot more from you next term.
E.A. (student), December 2024
She's, perhaps, the most "real" instructor in some ways. She listens to our concerns and acknowledges them. She, also, provides us with realistic ideas and thoughts. There are times where the expectations of instructors don't seem realistic to me but she is very great with feedback and listening to the students and helping them however she can.
Excerpt from Jaye Fredrickson Award nomination, 2024
Your knowledge, dedication, and passion for the field have truly inspired me and deepened my understanding of effective leadership in early learning environments... your passion for teaching has been so clear in every class this term. It was wonderful to
see it all come together, and it has really inspired me as I move forward in my future journey.
Giang Ha (student), April 2026
Thank you for being my practicum instructor, mentor, and guide during this important time in my life. Your support, helpful feedback, and encouragement have shaped my
practice and the kind of educator I want to be. You made me feel valued and understood... I will always remember the lessons I learned from you: to lead with
empathy, to observe with curiosity, and to reflect honestly.
Course Evaluation, Winter 2025
Thank you very much. I truly appreciate how you support students like me who are putting in so much effort while balancing schoolwork and a job. I am grateful for the valuable ideas you have shared, and I will make sure to keep all the notes you have provided. You are truly an amazing and an asset to Norquest.
M.B. (student), December 2024
Melissa was one of the best instructors I've ever had. Her teaching style was unique
and ensured that everyone stayed on track, with no one left behind. She made sure our class ended with knowledge we could carry forward and apply. Every week, she kept us updated on the class progress and what to expect next. I truly hope more instructors can be like her.”
Course Evaluation, Winter 2025
Melissa puts in incredible effort and care as an instructor. She offers... feedback... and as a result I feel like my ability to learn and reflect is profound. I would take a
class on paper bags if she taught it.
She is respectful and strength based, fun and kind and her lectures are engaging with lots of room for discussion and reciprocal engagement.
Course Evaluation, Winter 2023
I feel that with your guidance and patience I was able to learn a lot about myself as a student and as an educator that I will carry with me throughout my practice. I respect your passion and love for this field and that is something I want to show as well throughout my career.
A.S. (student), April 2024
Quality feedback is so incredibly rare. Not only is it incredibly valuable to be able to learn and improve, but in it, I feel that I have been seen and heard, that my words, thoughts, and reflections have value and meaning to someone else.
I recognize and appreciate the work you are putting into being an excellent educator of educators.
Jules (student), March 2023
Melissa goes above and beyond to help students succeed in their studies and in life. Her care, compassion and expertise in our field is extraordinary.... She is a strong advocate for the student’s learning about voice and choice.
Excerpt from Jaye Fredrickson Award nomination, 2023
"I wanted to express my gratitude for the time you took to connect with us and show your support for improving the situation of the student. It is truly heartwarming to witness someone who genuinely cares about the well-being of students and is willing to take action to bring about positive change.
Your ability to empathize with [this student's] situation and concern for other students facing similar challenges is truly admirable. It is people like you who are willing to stand up for what is right and take action to make a difference in the lives of others that we need more of in the world.
Your advocacy is an essential step towards achieving a better outcome for the students, and we are grateful to have your support in working towards creating a brighter future for them."
WILCEC Employer Partner, March 2023
"Melissa, it has been such a pleasure working with you this semester. You are a fantastic Instructor and you really brought the curriculum alive for our students! Thank you for making this experience so positive for our students, many who have not been in a traditional classroom setting recently! 😊"
"[Student] mentioned that you tried to connect this summer... You made such an impression on [student], I am grateful for the kindness and you really inspired her."
M.C.
Facilitator, School of Alternative Education, Edmonton Catholic Schools
June & September 2024
