Posted Date: 05/18/2022
Retiring from USD 264: Mrs. Rhonda Wells
After a career spent at USD 264, Mrs. Rhonda Wells will retire at the end of this year. For 31 years, Mrs. Wells has been a teacher - first at the elementary level and then 8th grade language arts. During that time she coached cheerleading, was yearbook advisor, and could be found helping keep score at middle school games.
We had some questions for Mrs. Wells
What do you love about our district?
I really enjoyed working in the same district my children grew up in and appreciate how supportive the community is. I am so thankful to have taught with so many wonderful educators throughout my years here.
How did your career surprise you?
When I look back on my career I remember saying that I would never want to teach higher than 4th or 5th grade! When the 8th grade position opened up, I was ready for a change so I decided to try something out of my comfort zone. I have enjoyed the different challenges and rewards each of the age groups have presented. I don’t think I could pick a favorite!
What’s your favorite activity that you have done in your classroom/building?
I remember when I was teaching 1st grade, in the spring we would do a “Camp Read-a-lot” unit. We would have tents and campfires in the room and the students would take turns going into the tents for silent reading time. It was so rewarding seeing the students’ joy and excitement of books and reading during that activity!
What are your future plans?
I look forward to spending a lot of time with my family and I also hope to do more traveling.
We wish you the best. Thank you for your years of service.
Retiring from USD 264: Sherys Mellen, 8th Grade Science Teacher
After 31 years in education, with all of them at Clearwater, Mrs. Sherys Mellen will retire at the end of the school year. She has taught science for 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th grades. Over the years, she also coached middle and high school cross country and track and middle school girls basketball.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to work in the Clearwater school district for the past 31 years. It has been a wonderful experience and a privilege,” she said.
We had some questions for Mrs. Mellen
What do you like most about our district:
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with the students and staff at USD 264. I have been blessed by knowing and working with so many students and staff and all have had a huge impact on my life. I hope that I have also had a positive impact on those students and co-workers that I have had the pleasure of interacting with.
What are your favorite activities?
I have so many it is hard to choose! Watching students succeed in the classroom and in athletics are wonderful memories I will always remember. I enjoyed the middle school lip sync competition every year. In my classroom, I have loved the Rube Goldberg Project, the egg drop competition, and the crime scene investigation along with many other fun science labs and activities.
What are your future plans?
I am looking forward to pursuing new opportunities that God leads me to whatever they may be.