Melissa Andersen Middle School Humanities Teacher

Melissa has taught humanities at Friends School of Minnesota since 2009 as long-term substitute, teaching assistant and, in 2011, as a full time humanities teacher. She has a B.A. from the University of Minnesota, Duluth (Teaching Social Studies with a Political Science Concentration). Before coming to FSM, Melissa taught middle school students in Fridley and New Brighton.

Melissa is from a small town on Lake Superior - "the most beautiful place on earth." She is fascinated by history, loves reading and enjoy spending time in her garden. She also loves the Muppets. "You have to be able to laugh at yourself."

"In order for students to see the value in the content being studied, teachers must create opportunities for students to apply their skills to real-life situations. Learning should go beyond the classroom. When students can see the impact of their work on the community, education becomes authentic."