DR. MELISSA COLLINS
John P. Freeman Optional School
Memphis-Shelby County Schools
Dr. Melissa Collins, a passionate second-grade teacher at John P. Freeman Optional School in Memphis, TN, has been named the 2024-2025 Magnet Schools of America Region 4 Teacher of the Year. With over 25 years of experience in education, Dr. Collins has dedicated her career to fostering student success through enriched academics, STEM education, and global learning experiences.
A National Board-Certified teacher and advocate for equity in education, Dr. Collins has developed innovative, hands-on learning opportunities that empower students to think critically and creatively. She is the founder of the Future Leaders of STEM Club, where students engage with STEM professionals and participate in immersive experiences such as a White Coat Ceremony, inspiring young learners to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Collins is a mentor to aspiring educators, an accomplished author, and an international speaker who has shared best practices in education across the globe. Her commitment to student achievement is reflected in her students’ outstanding academic performance, with 100% meeting or exceeding expectations on end-of-year assessments.
“I teach to motivate, inspire, and change systems and lives,” Dr. Collins shared. “My students are the future, and I want them to see themselves as leaders in their communities and beyond.”
Raise the level of performance consistent throughout school districts nationwide and creates a platform from which all magnet schools can flourish. Magnet Schools of America’s national certification process is designed to recognize the hard work of the best magnet schools in the nation and to help them as they grow.
