EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT FG Melanie Wicks
Jan. 4—Tell us about your educational highlight, honor, or accomplishment. What is it and how did you do it?
"The summer of 2023 will be a summer I will never forget. Two of my students (Emma Perdue and Easton Wicks) qualified for the NSDA National Speech and Debate Tournament in Phoenix, Arizona. After 12 rounds of competition and competing against more than 250 duets, they made it to the final stage and brought home sixth place in the nation. Also, one of my students, Emma Perdue, won the Discovery Awards and I watched her make her Broadway debut in New York City when she participated in the Jimmy Awards."
Why is this accomplishment important to you?
"Witnessing my students growing, setting goals, and achieving them is an honor and a humbling experience. Theatre is a vehicle where empathy can be seen and felt. It's life changing and providing a space where my students can be a part of the result of that empathy is a blessing."
How much did you have to work to accomplish this goal or honor?
"Counting hours or logging time isn't a part of my approach. If the student(s) have the desire to work, I meet them. I will always set aside time needed to assist my students. I am blessed to work at Fort Gibson Public Schools where I have an extremely supportive administration which allows me to do my job to the best of my ability. I am also so grateful to have a supportive husband who encourages me to dream, create, and follow my heart."
What plans do you have for the future?
"I plan to continue teaching and directing as I find so much joy in each. I am also planning to direct a brand new, never-before-seen musical, written by my brilliant friend and assistant director, entitled, "Vivia." It will celebrate the 200th birthday of Fort Gibson. This show will take place in Fort Gibson in April of 2024."
— Cathy Spaulding
