February 11, 2016

To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great pleasure that I support Melanie Shaver as a candidate for the Chief
Academic Officer position for McDowell County Schools.
I have had the opportunity to work with Melanie for the last six years as the lead person for
McDowell County Schools as we implemented an Investment In Innovation (i3) federal
grant in 7 counties in NC. This grant and implementation had many moving parts and
required significant attention. Melanie made the project implementation simple due to her
devotion to detail, leadership and vision. She was outstanding.
We selected McDowell County for a continuation grant to expand the use of hands on
science materials knowing that with her understanding of the project and ability to work
with the supportive leadership in McDowell our continued investment would be used
appropriately and aligned with the program goals.
I can continue to offer accolades related to Melanie Shaver and I am glad to speak on her
behalf if needed. I recommend her without reservation for this position.
Sincerely,

Sam Houston, Jr., Ed.D.

President and CEO

21 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 13901, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
919-991-5111 www.ncsmt.org