FOUNTAIN LAKE -- Melody Gilleran, facilitator for the Environmental and Spatial Technologies program at Fountain Lake Charter High School, was named the Air Force Association's Teacher of the Year in both the Hot Springs and Arkansas state chapters.
State AFA President Jerry Reichenbach presented the honors to Gilleran during a ceremony May 13. The title was awarded for her contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In addition to the title, Gilleran received several awards and honorary AFA membership.
"We are excited to have Mrs. Melody as a part of our organization," Reichenbach said. "The STEM field is of great importance to us, and Melody is making amazing contributions to the field. Her membership will allow her to enjoy the benefits provided to all AFA members."
Gilleran's EAST students have worked on various projects through the years with her guidance, including geocaching and computer accessibility solutions for students with limited motor skills. A recent project, Fulfill, received national recognition at the 2016 EAST Conference. EAST student Alexa Donley designed the mobile application to aid those recovering from eating disorders.
"We are extremely proud of Mrs. Gilleran, and glad to see her receive recognition for the outstanding job she has always done here," said Donald Westerman, principal of the high school. "Fountain Lake has been very pleased with the exposure our students have to the STEM field through EAST, and Melody plays an important part in that."
Gilleran's students noted the award was well-deserved and none of their successes would be possible without her.
"Honestly, I'm speechless," Gilleran said. "My students are the true stars, and I am blessed to work with them each day. The EAST Initiative provides such unique opportunities to students, and we are so fortunate that our school district supports our program. Watching students grow and thrive in EAST every day is the true reward, and this recognition is just an unbelievable honor."
School on 05/29/2016