"DECADES OF DEDICATION" is a series that points the spotlight as some of our most veteran staff members from across the district. We hope you enjoy getting to know some of these pillars in the Lee County Schools community and are inspired by their passion and drive to help students thrive.
Melanie Hawes is a third grade teacher at Tramway Elementary School. Mrs. Hawes is a 32 year veteran of Lee County Schools. She started her education career in LCS as a Title I reading specialist at J. Glenn Edwards Elementary School and was hired by the first principal of Tramway Elementary, Gary Jackson, to teach second grade some 27 years ago. Her first seven years at Tramway were as a second grade teacher before moving up to third grade for the last 20 years.
For Mrs. Hawes, Lee County Schools is a family affair, and she has enjoyed being able to serve students in such a tight knit community.
JOIN THE LCS FAMILY | APPLY NOW!
Q: What are some of your most memorable moments from your time in Lee County Schools?
Hawes: "At JGE being a part of the Barnyard Chatter where we incorporated literacy into a fun weekly performance for the younger students was truly a highlight of my early years. Working with Lisa Foushee, Vickie Wilkins, Mike Riddle, Danny Hestor, and Anita Spivey was a real treat. I am thankful for my other mentors there - Gaynell McIver and Phyliis Farren. They taught me so much about how to be a successful teacher.
At Tramway, I cherish memories of field trips to Maple View Farm and feeding baby calves, trips to Jackson Brothers and learning about plants. I am also so grateful that I was able to work with my mother, Jeanne Buie, at Tramway for many years. It was truly special being here when she retired to help her celebrate.
I have loved teaching siblings from the same families, cousins, and now children of my former students. I have been so fortunate to work under great administration and have had incredible teammates. I am so lucky to have a job I love and I strive to continue to learn and grow professionally each year. "
Q: Can you share any stories of impact where you have seen your efforts directly benefit students or colleagues?
Hawes: "I love running into former students around town. My own two kids give me a hard time because everywhere we go it seems we run into one of "mom's former students". It is special that they remember me and we can catch up and reminisce about the time we spent together."
Q: What have you learned over the years that you would like to pass on to the next generation of educators and staff members?
Hawes: "I think the biggest thing I've learned is that change is inevitable. Be flexible and always be open and willing to be a learner. Even a 32 veteran can learn something new to improve and become a better teacher."
Q: What have you learned over the years that you would like to pass on to the next generation of educators and staff members?
Hawes: "One bit of advice for future educators - Be Positive and have a glass "half full" attitude. My dad taught me this and I try each day to find the positives in my classroom, my students, and in life."
Q: If there is one thing you could tell future employees about this district, what would it be?
Hawes: "Lee County Schools has been my home away from home for so many years. I am thankful that I was encouraged to go back to school to get my Masters in Reading, was encouraged to become a Nationally Board Certified teacher, and that I am trusted to help teach the children of Lee County. It means a lot to have people around you that want to see you succeed and grow."