Receiving the Presidential Award would be a profound honor, validating endless hours of work and desire to improve mathematics education for students. It acknowledges my commitment to inspire future generations to excel in STEM fields, especially those who have traditionally been left out. It recognizes the invaluable mentorship of colleagues, principals, and family whose teaching prowess and influence I consistently strive to emulate.

Melissa Brown Riverton, UT | 7-12, Mathematics, 2023

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Melissa Brown is a National Board Certified mathematics teacher and instructional coach with a 23-year teaching career dedicated to transforming the way students experience mathematics. She currently teaches AP Calculus, Math 2, Math 3, and is responsible for all students working on mathematics credit recovery at Riverton High School. She serves on the school leadership team and works tirelessly as a lead teacher mentor. She previously taught mathematics as an adjunct professor at Salt Lake Community College. She has also taught Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry, Precalculus, and AP Statistics, as well as Chemistry. As a lead teacher mentor, Melissa developed Silverwolf Academy which works to ensure the success of new teachers at Riverton High School. Melissa has also led professional development courses at both the local and state level. With a deep-rooted belief that every student has the potential to grasp and love mathematics, Melissa focuses on cultivating positive and empowering relationships in her classroom. Melissa's approach intertwines compassion with rigorous mathematical standards, aiming to dismantle the barriers to mathematics education and inspire a generation of confident problem solvers. Her passion goes beyond the numbers; it's about connecting with each student, understanding their unique learning journey, and guiding them to see mathematics not just as a subject, but as a language of the universe they can master. Melissa earned a B.S. in mathematics and an M.Ed. in teaching and learning from the University of Utah. She is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, National Education Association, Utah Education Association (UEA) and Jordan Education Association (JEA). She has served on the UEA Board of directors and the JEA Executive Board.

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