It’s time for another Staff Spotlight! This is a great opportunity to learn more about new faculty and staff making a difference in and out of the classroom while providing a glimpse into their unique personalities and lives outside of school.
Did you know that a student’s health is directly related to their ability to learn? School nurses are an essential component not only for the health and well-being of students, but also for their academic success and life-long achievements. We’re excited to profile our new nurse in the latest faculty and staff spotlight. Meet Nurse Melanie Barry!
1. Welcome to Laurel Ridge! How long have you been a nurse? Almost too long to count! 25 years!
2. What subjects do you think are key to pursuing a career in nursing? Science - especially biology, and ELA - it is so important to be able to effectively communicate, both written and verbal, to care for patients.
3. If you hadn't become a nurse, what career would you have chosen? This is a hard one because nursing has always been my career choice since about age 6. I think I would have enjoyed a career as a writer - suspense novels possibly.
4. Who is the most famous person you’ve ever met? What was the situation and what did you do? I lived in Nashville many years ago and worked in a restaurant as a manager. One day, Reba McEntire came in for dinner. She was so kind and gracious. I asked for a photo together, and her manager gave me his card. I sent the photo to them for her to sign. She's a very classy lady.
5. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to travel, read, cook and attend Atlanta United soccer games (season ticketholder and founding member). I enjoy spending time with my family doing just about anything. This summer we took a trip to Greece - Myself, my kids and grandkids. It was my first passport stamp! Perdido Key Beach is my favorite place to go when I have the chance. I love the sand, sun and water. I also play a LOT of tennis. This past summer I played in 5 different leagues, so I was on the court 4-5 times a week in the summer heat.
6. What words from a quote, poem, or song inspires you and why? Life is like a camera - Focus on what's important - Capture the good times - Develop from the negatives - If things don't work out, take another shot! I love this perspective so much because it provides clarity and reminds me to be kind to myself. That, in turn, fosters kindness toward others.
7. What are you most excited about for the 2022-2023 school year? There are so many things! I'm excited to meet all the kids! I'm excited to work with a fabulous group of professionals. I'm excited to build new, positive relationships.
8. If you could give advice to your elementary aged self, what would you say? The capacity for learning is the greatest gift we are born with. You have the ability to learn for your whole life. Always put forth your best effort.
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