May 18, 2019 Airdrie, Alberta Dear Sir or Madam, Ihave had the pleasure of knowing Melissa Walker through Good Shepherd School for the past three years. I have had two children that she has taught, and I believe that she is a gifted and amazing teacher. She is creative in her teaching and is able to hold a young person's attention, which allows them enjoy what they are Jearning. She creates projects that they find interesting to do, that they find challenging, yet rewarding. ‘Mrs. Walker excels in creating relationships with the young people of Good Shepherd. She takes the time to got to know them, she listens when they talk about what is going on in their lives, She is the teacher that is the most sought out, whether it is to hug, to tell a story to, or to approach with a problem. She involves herself in extra curricular activities and community events. She is the staff member representative for our School Council and is very knowledgeable about every activity happening in the school in any grade. She presents professionally and confidently and is very open to conversations from parents. My two sons have brought some personal struggles to Mrs. Walker's classroom. She is always supportive and caring and continually asks how she can help. She advocates when they need someone to support them with something. She also isn’t afraid to hold them accountable when their behaviours aren't consistent with school expectations. She does so in a way that is not belittling or damaging, rather using her relationship and her confidence in her students to do better. Mrs. Walker can always be counted on to be respectful, kind, forgiving and compassionate. Her sense of humour is wonderful and she seems to genuinely enjoy her job and her interactions with young people. As a parent in the Airdrie community, I am extremely grateful that my children have had her as a teacher. I think she will be the teacher that my sons remember when they are grown and have children of their own. I see Melissa Walker as an excellent example of intelligence, strength and hope for her students. Thank you, Mrs. Walker, for all you have done. hey and gratitude, 7 Carmen Volk