Experience Summary
I am the Site Coordinator for READING PALS at Paradise Elementary School. I've been working daily at Paradise Elementary for over 3 years as a Volunteer Reading Instructor.
I also worked one summer for the Northern California Burn Foundation as a Counselor and Quartermaster at Camp. Working with severely burned children was one of the most rewarding times in my life.
Teaching Style
Most of the teaching staff and 90% of the students know me as Mr.John. They know and respect me as someone who takes his time to mentor through friendship. I instill a desire in each student to improve incrementally, each at their own speed, with a focus on learning new words, and their meaning, everyday. You will always see a Dictionary on my reading table. I strive to make learning fun! I'm also a spelling nut... so flash cards with surprise spelling and comprehension quizes are also part of my repertoire.
My Hobbies
I like to keep busy and creative. I am an inventor and hold one US Patent for a new type of roll-up closet door. Although I am retired now, I was a General Contractor for 20 years in Chico, and also a Realtor in Bend, OR, for many years. My main "hobby" would have to be photography. My work has been published in 29 national magazines and 3 national Calendars, as well as business journals, newspapers, and adverting publications.
I'm also an Chess Player. This year I started teaching interested students how to play Chess. Chess mirrors life. It teaches kids to carefully look over the options and make sound decisions. Chess teaches children that ALL of their decisions have consequences.
Other Comments
I do what I do ~ because I love who I work with! These students and teachers have entrusted me with the most valuable of opportunities. We only have a short amount of time to make a difference in our children's lives. Every moment is precious, and reading bridges the gap between ignorance and understanding. In any given week, there are many children that I spend more one-on-one time with than their parents.
No amount of money could give me more pleasure than helping one child become a better reader. I want to see each and every student succeed. I have been blessed beyond measure and believe it's my turn to pay it forward!
I don't need or ask for payment - I will work with your student for free. All I ask for is your support and together we WILL make a difference. If you have questions, feel free to contact me at mr.johnmelton at gmail dot com.