MELS: Mastery Education & Life Skills

Hello Parents,

My name is Melissa Carte, and I am a certified teacher with a Master of Arts in Elementary Mathematics. Before anything else, I am a child of God, a wife to my husband Matt, and a mom to our son Major. My vision for education is different, and I am excited to continue bringing a handful of motivated learners on this journey with us!

This is my 10th year in education. I have worked in both the Medford and Central Point School Districts and in the private sector at Grace Christian Elementary. When Major entered Kindergarten, I knew I needed to find a way to spend more time with him, and that is where the idea for MELS began.

Over the past year, I have had the privilege of watching MELS become what I envisioned. Our students thrived academically, socially, and personally while developing a genuine love for learning. We spent countless hours learning beyond the classroom, including approximately 100 excursions and real-world learning experiences throughout the year. Seeing students become more confident, curious, independent, and excited about what they were learning confirmed for me that this model of education truly works.

I’ve worked hard in classrooms with more than twenty-four students and struggled to meet each of their individual needs. I have diligently worked to keep pacing and meet standards while assessing and nurturing their hearts and little personalities. I have the utmost respect for what teachers do, but I am grateful to now focus on the needs of a smaller group of learners who are excited to grow with us during their years in education.

I believe students need to learn in a safe and organized environment where each child feels supported, seen, and protected. I have worked hard to create a setting that reflects this belief, and I know your child will find MELS to be a place where they can be comfortable learning and growing alongside their peers. Students all learn at their own pace and have unique strengths and weaknesses. I am excited to provide an environment where kids don’t have to keep up with their peers or slow down to let those around them catch up.

I believe technology has a place in the classroom, but it shouldn’t be the only resource we use. I want to help produce well-rounded members of the community who think critically and care about the world around them. Kids need to be taught how to communicate respectfully, give back to their community, and solve complex problems on their own. Through technology, small-group learning, high expectations, hands-on experiences, and partnerships with our community, I believe these goals are achievable.

I am so excited for another year at MELS and look forward to watching our students continue to learn, grow, and discover a love for learning. Thank you for trusting me with your children and allowing me to be part of their educational journey.

God Bless,

Melissa Carte