Melinda Holder is a kindergarten teacher at Trout Elementary. She is originally from Coffeyville, Kansas and has been in Ponca City since 1982.

When her three children were young, she began a licensed home day care. Te aching children at her home inspired her to earn a degree in Early Childhood Education through NWOSU.

"The University Center had just come into existence, and made it possible for me to achieve my degree while working full time," said Holder.

Holder graduated in 2006 and h as taught at Trout Elementary for 15 years. Two of those years she taught second grade and then kindergarten for the rest.

Holder's favorite part about education is watching the emergent literacy of her students.

"Watch the " light come on" as kindergarteners learn to r e ad is my absolute favorite thing," said Holder. "I also love the kindergarten age. Children this age are loving and so eager to learn! They are excited about every topic, from Abraham Lincoln to butterflies!"

Holder believes in order for students to learn, they should be in a caring and safe environment, believing that students thrive on a structure, but that structure has to be balanced with an ever-changing teaching process.

"Learning needs to be hands-on, and a teacher must be sensitive to student s' varied learning styles," said Holder. "And a primary teacher must build that foundation for a life long love of school and learning!"

Holder states the past two school years have definitely been a challenge for education, but watched those around her tackle the obstacles with tenacity and even a sense of humor.

"I'm so blessed to have a job where my coworkers are among the strongest, most positive and supportive people around," said Holden . "We've all learned that we can accomplish way more than we ever imagined."