Class Acts: Q&A with Waterford teacher Melissa Coffee

Anh Vu nominated Melissa Coffee for Class Acts. Vu said Coffee's compassion to effectively teach her emotionally disturbed students stood out. Coffee does her job professionally and her students have fun on a daily basis and she is building youths to become responsible adults in our society, Vu added.

Name: Melissa Coffee

Age: 41

City of residence: Manteca

Occupation: Waterford High School special education teacher

Family: Boyfriend Jeff, son Dakota

Education background: Bachelor's in social science and master's in special education from Chapman University

Teaching experience: 12 years with the Stanislaus County Office of Education as a special education teacher for students who are emotionally disturbed

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Why did you get into teaching?

I was working as a paraeducator with emotionally disturbed students, and I was inspired to want to reach them academically and socially. I could see the potential those students hid inside themselves, and I wanted to help them see the potential that I saw.

What is your favorite thing about being a teacher?

The challenges my students bring with them and the ways that we can overcome those obstacles together. I truly enjoy it when mainstream teachers find out a student is one of "mine" and they ask me, "Really?"

What is the most challenging part of your job?

Watching my students struggle to overcome learning deficits.

What is the most important lesson you've learned?

That any student is reachable and teachable. That a student's history doesn't define them and given a chance they often will surprise you.

What is your favorite teaching tool or activity?

We recently received a Smart Board for our classroom and that brings about a new and creative way to present information and ideas.

What advice do you have for students?

Don't give up. You might not be able to see all that lies ahead right now, but getting your high school diploma will be worth it.

What advice do you have for parents?

As a parent, I think it is important to be realistic; though our intentions may be sincere, our dreams just may not be the dreams of our children.

What will it take to improve academic success in the valley?

Parents being involved in all aspects of their child's education. Get to know their teachers, get to know the school administration, get involved in activities, and most importantly hold your child accountable to academic success.

How do you reach students not interested in school?

I try to find things that they are interested in and I contract with them to be successful. If it costs me a lunch from Taco Bell or having to wear a Raiders Santa Hat on a day when it 100 degrees outside, so be it.

What one area should schools put more emphasis on?

Vocational education.

If you could change one thing about the current educational system, what would it be and why?

Quit focusing on testing. Add or increase vocational-technical programs that will help our children be prepared to enter the world of work. Not every child desires to go to college and there is nothing wrong with that, but we need to prepare that child as much as we prepare the others.