Melissa Painter made her impression when she started volunteering with Rebekah Thomas’ class at Allen Jay Elementary. Melissa immediately threw herself into the mix with the children – sharing lunch, reading to them and even getting some time in on the playground. Through her enthusiasm for learning, the children she meets with every week have developed a passion for sharing their excitement about books.

Melissa doesn’t settle for meeting with the children once a week. She attends class functions like field trips, Mother’s Day teas, celebrations and graduation to show her support for the students who wait so eagerly for her next visit. She even brought Thomas’ class to her workplace – WGHP – and gave them a personal tour so they could see how news is shared through television.

As the GCS Volunteer of the Month, Melissa will receive a certificate of appreciation from the Board of Education and Superintendent Maurice Green. She will also receive a $25 gift card from American Express. Her photo will hang on a plaque at her school during the month of September, as well as at the district’s central offices. Remember to watch for the Volunteer of the Month on GCSTV 2.