Teacher of the Month: Melissa Krukow, Lake Local Schools

NAME – Melissa Krukow

SCHOOL – Lake Elementary School

RESIDENCE – Uniontown

HIGH SCHOOL ALMA MATER – Mogadore High School

COLLEGE – Bachelor’s degree from Kent State University; master’s degree from University of Akron.

FAMILY – Husband, Robert; daughters Camryn, 13, and Caylee, 10.

WHAT SUBJECTS DO YOU TEACH – Fifth grade science and social studies.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? – My students make each day enjoyable and exciting! Fifth graders LOVE to have fun and are excited to learn new things-every day is a new adventure. I am also lucky to have the opportunity to work with a wonderful group of teachers. All of the fifth-grade teachers at Lake Elementary are amazing! I love collaborating with them to make the best learning experiences possible for our students.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF YOUR JOB? – One of the hardest parts of my job is finding ways to meet the needs of all my students. Each student is so unique and different; I am always looking for ways to engage them in their learning in order to help them reach their highest potential.

WHAT SECRET TO SUCCESS WOULD YOU SHARE WITH STUDENTS? – The sky's the limit when you work hard and persevere through challenges!

IS TEACHING KIDS THE SAME TODAY AS WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED? – Things are both the same and different. One of the biggest changes since I first started teaching is the use of technology. We have so many more resources to use right at our fingertips. I love learning new ways to utilize technology in a meaningful way to help students learn.

YOUR STUDENTS WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW THAT YOU … – … love to read! It is one of the ways that I relax, and I try to read whenever I have a chance; I typically finish 1-2 books a week.

WHAT IS YOUR HIDDEN TALENT? – I love to cook for my family!

IF YOU WEREN’T A TEACHER, YOU’D BE … – I honestly can’t imagine doing anything else! My job is fulfilling and rewarding. I look forward to going to work every day.

AFTER A LONG DAY AT WORK, WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO RELAX? – Taking my dog for a walk, spending time with my family, reading, cooking or exercising.

Other nominations

ALLIANCE

Marlisa Sams, fifth-grade science at Alliance Intermediate School − Marlisa is a true team player and a passionate science teacher. Her excitement for all things science is spread to students every year, and our growing state scores are proof! She will do anything for a peer, and they brag about her talent and support year after year. After 30+ years, her current students are often children of previous students. Marlisa is leaving a wonderful legacy, and we are all lucky to be a part of it!

Christopher Schillig, English and college comp teacher at Alliance High School − Mr. Schillig challenges his students on a regular basis while still engaging them in high-interest activities such as his March Madness American Author Competition. He also continues to lead our educational community by serving as the District's HS English Department chair, serving as the District's County Lead Teacher, starting a Student Focus Group on AI, and coordinating the One Book, One Community author visit that took place here at AHS.

CANTON CITY

Stefany Palomba, Choices High School – Coach Palomba strives to make sure each and every student feels that they belong. She continuously revamps her curriculum to include engaging lessons.

CANTON LOCAL

Rachel Ruthrauff, sixth-grade intervention specialist − Rachel's unwavering dedication to her students shines through her daily commitment and compassionate approach, fostering an environment where excellence thrives. Her exemplary leadership and role-modeling make her a standout nominee for her tireless efforts in exceeding expectations and inspiring those around her.

JACKSON LOCAL

Melissa Ash, fifth grade math/science − Melissa is deeply committed to the success and growth of her students. She employs innovative teaching methods to make complex mathematical and scientific concepts accessible and engaging to students of all abilities. In addition, she leads colleagues in math professional development, contributing to instructional best practices. Her leadership and dedication serve as an inspiration to both students and staff alike.

LAKE CENTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Holly Wright, second grade − Mrs. Wright is an exceptional teacher who works tirelessly to meet the needs of her students. She collaborates with colleagues and assists wherever needed. She has a joyful attitude, is an encourager, and seeks out the best in both her students and her team.

Lance Taylor, junior high social studies − Joy, conversations, and critical thinking skills are some ways to describe what happens in Mr. Taylor's Junior High Social Studies classroom. As he discusses and brings to life the history lessons that he presents to students, he also meets each student where they are in order to build a love of lifelong learning. Students feel supported and seen in his classroom.

LAKE LOCAL

Melissa Krukow, fifth-grade science and social studies − Mrs. Krukow's dedication to her students goes above and beyond the classroom. She consistently brings innovation and initiative to her classroom, creating an engaging learning environment that fosters creativity and critical thinking. One notable example of her innovative approach is the introduction of soapbox derby races, which not only enriches the curriculum but also instills a sense of teamwork and excitement among her students. Mrs. Krukow is a compassionate mentor for both students and staff alike. She takes the time to support and encourage her colleagues, serving as a valuable resource for new teachers and seasoned educators alike. Her willingness to collaborate and share ideas demonstrates her commitment to the success of her students. Melissa Krukow is an outstanding educator who goes above and beyond for her students and colleagues. Her passion for teaching, her innovative approach and dedication to collaboration make her a deserving candidate for the Canton Repository Teacher of the Month award.

Debra Bordo, grade seven through 12 choir; musical director − Deb Bordo has proven to be an invaluable member of the Lake Middle High School staff as our choir director, music department chair, and as the director of our always-fabulous spring musical. Spending 50 minutes each day with Mrs. Bordo is always time well spent, and the end results are performances that draw standing-room-only crowds and countless memories for all who are involved. Those who have experienced any theater production will no doubt attest to the amount of work and hours involved with producing a quality performance. Mrs. Bordo actually "double casts" our musicals each year, essentially doubling her workload so that more students can be involved. Mrs. Bordo is that rare teacher who can take a group of students and give each one their moment in the spotlight, while the rest of us get to witness a collaboration that is memorable and results that are magical.

LOUISVILLE

Lynne Lashley, kindergarten − Lynne Lashley is a kindergarten teacher at Louisville Elementary. Lynne has a caring heart, and it is truly evident as you watch her interact with her students daily. She works extremely hard to make sure students feel safe and loved. Lynne has established a classroom where students are active participants and engaged in their learning. Lynne is a great asset to LES, and we are very blessed to have her on our staff.

MARLINGTON LOCAL

Emily Holzer, kindergarten − Mrs. Holzer is a kindergarten teacher at Washington Elementary School and has been in education for the past 10 years. Mrs. Holzer is a dedicated and compassionate teacher who always puts the needs of her students first. She spends a tremendous amount of time preparing lessons that engage and teach students and brings numerous community members into her classroom to provide her students access to opportunities they may not normally have. Mrs. Holzer takes on many leadership responsibilities in the building as well as having served as a member of our CARE Team and Building Leadership Team. Mrs. Holzer is an outstanding educator and is deserving of any recognition that comes her way.

Kelli Lippenga, seventh-grade English teacher − Mrs. Lippenga is the consummate professional and a positive example to students and colleagues alike. Her care for kids is evident as soon as one steps inside her classroom. In addition to being a phenomenal teacher, Kelli is a member of Marlington's building and district leadership teams, serves as a reading content area leader, and furthers her own learning through the ACE program.

MASSILLON

Katie Boarman, speech and language pathologist − Gorrell's teacher of the month is Katie Boarman. She is our speech and language pathologist. This is Katie's second year at Gorrell. She came to us from the University of Akron, where she was a professor for students pursuing a degree in speech and language pathology. Katie splits her time at Gorrell and the middle school. Katie is wonderful at her job and has helped so many students. We are lucky to have Katie at Gorrell!

Kim Anderson, English Department; Ann Radel, cosmetology; Dave Scheetz, media productions; and Mark Kircher, manufacturing/engineering − With a combined total number of 133 years of teaching experience, Massillon High School felt it was appropriate to recognize Kim Anderson, Ann Radel, Dave Scheetz, and Mark Kircher as our nominees for the teacher of the month. They are retiring at the end of the school year, and their long-lasting impact upon students has been incredible. We are thankful for all the positive relationships they have built amongst their colleagues and the students that they have served over these number of years. We wish them well and nothing but the very best in the future!

MINERVA LOCAL

Nicole Chaddock, sixth-grade English and language arts − Mrs. Chaddock's dedication to teaching and unwavering support for our students are evident in everything she does. Her steadfast commitment to the success of students, along with her collaborative nature among colleagues, commands immense respect from both students and peers alike. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Chaddock's positive influence on our school's culture is immeasurable. Her passion for education shines through, making her not just a great teacher, but a valued asset to our school community.

NORTH CANTON

Rachael Sholtis, second-grade intervention specialist at North Canton Primary School − Mrs. Sholtis’ caring demeanor is a great strength in her day-to-day work with students and fellow staff. That gentle and caring spirit, while pushing all students to achieve their full potential, is evident daily in her interactions with students in her role as a co-teacher in her co-taught second grade classroom. Her willingness to help all staff and students in any way makes the school a better place as she positively impacts all who come into contact with her.

Jennifer Manion, Career Tech at Hoover High School − Twenty-year Hoover High School veteran teacher Jennifer Manion is a Career-Tech teacher in the Teaching Professions program, where she teaches high school students who plan to go on to college to major in education. While preparing future educators, she creates a welcoming and accepting environment for all students, tailors her instruction to her students’ interests, needs, and learning styles, recognizes students’ achievements and accomplishments that occur both in and outside of her classroom, and goes above and beyond in coordinating classroom field experiences for her students in other teachers’ classrooms throughout the district. Her willingness to always help students achieve success combined with her desire to collaborate with her colleagues help make Hoover High School a better place for all who are there on a daily basis.

OSNABURG LOCAL

Karrah Stilianos, third grade − East Canton Elementary would like to recognize Mrs. Karrah Stilianos as our Teacher of the Month due to her passion for students, contributions to our school community as a whole, and collaboration with colleagues. Mrs. Stilianos serves on multiple volunteer organizations throughout our school and community while always working to bring new and exciting opportunities to our students. Every staff member in our school recognizes Karrah's contagious laugh and smile throughout the building because she works hard to build relationships with all colleagues, students, and families. Thank you, Mrs. Stilianos, for making East Canton Schools a better place to be each and every day!

Lindsay Crawford, seventh- and eighth-grade science − Mrs. Lindsay Crawford is truly deserving of being recognized as Teacher of the Month. Her dedication to her role as our seventh- and eighth-grade science teacher and student council advisor is evident in the way she prioritizes building strong relationships with her students. Mrs. Crawford not only impacts knowledge, but also fosters a supportive and encouraging environment for her students to thrive in. Her commitment to their success is truly commendable.

PERRY LOCAL

Devin Stark, kindergarten − Devin is a very strong and passionate teacher. She taught Title One for several years and then transitioned to a middle school classroom in 2022. This year, she is a wonderful role model for our early learners and is very motivated to watch our little ones grow.

Ethan Kagy, dean of students − Ethan is the face of Perry High School. He assists our students, teachers and administrators with all their needs, and he has a strong passion to help our kids. Without Ethan, Perry High would not have the outstanding culture that it does, as he has high expectations for student behavior. He is also a football and track coach.

PLAIN LOCAL

Kelli Mohn, Spanish and coding − Kelli Mohn’s love of teaching and learning is evident as she is not only the Spanish teacher at GWIS, but also the coding teacher. Kelli believes in providing exceptional learning opportunities for all students. Her creativity and innovative lessons engage her students and spark their own love for learning!

Natalie Mickley, school counselor − Natalie Mickley is very caring and passionate in her role as counselor and strives to help educate the whole child. She advocates for equity and for all her students.

SANDY VALLEY

Tim McBride, science − Mr. McBride, Sandy Valley's chemistry teacher, brings his expertise to the classroom. He is a longtime girls' basketball coach, and he has a passion for the game and coaching. Mr. McBride ignites curiosity through hands-on experiments which highlights his dedication to teaching!

This article originally appeared on The Alliance Review: Meet Melissa Krukow of Lake Local Schools, a Top Teacher for April