Artz named Teacher of the Year for Thomas County Middle School

Mar. 11—THOMASVILLE — Thomas County Middle School recently named Melissa Artz, seventh grade math teacher, as its 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. Artz has taught at TCMS for eight years and currently teaches math on the T.O.P.S. (Teaching Outstanding Performers for Success) team.

"Melissa Artz is an outstanding math teacher and also a wonderful role model for our students," said Thomas County Middle School Principal Clay Stanaland. "She holds her students and herself to a high standard in the classroom. Mrs. Artz has served as a leader in our math department and a leader among our faculty in helping with targeted support for small group instruction and struggling students. She is not only an outstanding teacher, but Mrs. Artz is also very personable, always with a ready smile each day for her students. You can tell when you are around Mrs. Artz or in her classroom that she loves teaching and she loves her students."

After Artz graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education in 2009, and Masters in Special Education in 2010, she began teaching at Sumter County Schools where she taught reading, writing, and language for the deaf. In 2012, she moved to Thomasville and taught at Thomasville City Schools before moving to Thomas County Schools in 2016, where she has taught both science and math. She has completed her doctoral coursework from Northcentral University with only her dissertation remaining, as she believes in being a lifelong learner.

Artz attributes her success in teaching to "creating dynamic environments where students can apply theoretical knowledge to tangible, real-world situations."

She said, "It is within these moments of exploration and experimentation that our students not only grasp complex concepts but also cultivate a profound love for the sciences and mathematics, fostering a mindset that transcends the traditional boundaries of the curriculum."

When discussing her teaching style, Artz said that she is constantly trying to incorporate real-world scenarios into teaching math.

Artz said, "My aim is to make mathematical concepts tangible and relevant to students, ensuring that they see the direct correlation between what they are learning in the classroom and its application in everyday life."

Artz gave an example of a recent lesson where students rotated through different stations to complete various assignments. In one group, students had a scenario of a Black Friday sale where they had a specific budget and had to find the discount of items that they would like to purchase. In another rotation, students planned a trip to Disney, including the cost of the stay, food, park passes, and tax for each. She used the same concept in the last group where the students ordered from Daisy's Donut Shop and determined the total amount that they would spend, including a tip to leave at the restaurant.

"During this lesson the students were not just memorizing formulas but were actively applying their knowledge to make informed decisions," Artz said. "This approach aligns with my belief that teaching mathematics is not just about imparting facts but cultivating analytical skills that students can use beyond the classroom."

She added, "The impact of this lesson extended beyond the classroom walls. Students started recognizing the relevance of mathematics in their daily lives, whether they were out shopping with their families or deciding how much to tip at a restaurant. The practical applications of percent application became evident, and students have begun to view math as a tool for making informed decisions rather than a series of abstract concepts."

Artz said that she constantly strives to create a collaborative nature in her classroom, fostering a sense of community. She believes that students learn not only from her but also from their peers, creating a supportive learning environment that enhances their mathematical understanding and develops their communication and teamwork skills.

Artz's investment in education goes way beyond the classroom walls at TCMS. In addition to her role as an educator, Artz is a member of the children's ministry team at Dawson Street Baptist Church where she has taught first grade Sunday school and has served as co-director, set designer, and STEM activity director for Vacation Bible School for the past three years. In addition to these roles at Dawson Street, she also plays the keyboard in the orchestra and is a member of the handbell choir and adult choir.

Artz also teaches American Sign Language I and II at Thomas University and is a member of Valdosta State University's Advisory Board for the Deaf Education and Interpreting Programs, reflecting her commitment to shaping the future of educational programs and ensuring that students "feel seen, heard, and valued."

Arz concluded by saying, "In my role as a seventh-grade teacher at Thomas County Middle School, my mission transcends conventional teaching methods. I am steadfast in my belief that we must empower students to engage in accelerated learning. Our classrooms are not confined spaces for rote instruction but rather incubators for curiosity, creativity, and a passion for lifelong learning."