GODFREY – Melissa Batchelor, professor and program coordinator for L&C’s Education and Child Development programs, has earned the 2018 Concern for Children award from Kreative Kids Learning Center, a division of the Alton Day Care and Learning Center.
Get The Latest News!
Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.
The award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to the care and well-being of children living in the region.
“Melissa Batchelor is widely respected throughout the region for developing quality early childhood educators that are both skilled and passionate for enhancing the lives of children,” said Keith Neuber, CEO Kreative Kids Learning Center. “Her support of Kreative Kids Learning Center through the years has significantly enhanced our staff's service delivery. Melissa is an exceptional advocate for the well-being of children and in drawing recognition to the contribution early childhood education makes to our community.”
Batchelor, who has worked in child development for many years, is humbled by the award.
“I consider it an honor to receive this sort of recognition from a group of professionals I admire,” Batchelor said. “I’m fortunate to work in a profession I’m passionate about.”
Although Batchelor began teaching at L&C as an adjunct professor in 2004 and as a full-time professor in 2011, she started as a student at L&C, earning both an Associate in Applied Science in Child Development and an Associate in Science.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Master of Science in Elementary Education at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and her Educational Leadership doctorate from Lindenwood University.
“I’ve always had an interest in teaching,” Batchelor said. “Once I started in the Child Development program at Lewis and Clark, I was hooked by the faculty and my passion for children and the adults working with those children.”
Batchelor doesn’t hesitate to explain what she likes most about her job.
“The students,” she said. “I’m able to connect with my internship students in the field and watch them make a difference every day in the lives of the children they teach.”
Currently, Batchelor is developing an Early Childhood Education program through L&C at the East St. Louis Higher Education Center.
“There is such a need for quality early childhood programs in all communities,” she said. “Having the opportunity work with students and providers in East St. Louis to provide quality programming is fulfilling a need for that community. Becoming a teacher at any age or grade level is one of the most important jobs.”
For more information on L&C’s programs, visit www.lc.edu/program/childdev/ or
www.lc.edu/major/education/education/.
More like this:
