This week we continue our series of articles highlighting the many faces of leadership throughout the CHSAA membership. Our hope is that by taking a small glimpse into the window of their leadership background, you will gain a greater understand of why they are such strong advocates for the vision and core values of the Colorado High School Activities Association.
I am excited to talk with a good friend, a true CHSAA supporter, and a proud Colorado State University alum. A huge shout out to Eaglecrest High School Activities Director and Student Leadership adviser, Melissa LaFerrara, for making time for us. Let’s do this…
Before we talk about your personal journey, can you tell us a bit about Eaglecrest High School?
Thank you for asking about Eaglecrest. As you already know, I love this school so much, so I stop me when I have said enough. Eaglecrest is the 2nd largest school in Colorado, with a student population of over 3,100 kids. Our student body is roughly 46% White, 24% Latino, 14% Black, 7% Asian, and 8% represent multiple races. We are, on some level a microcosm of the American demographic. The greatness of our school is in our high level of belonging, acceptance, and our commitment to excellence (in high school and beyond). There is truly something at Eaglecrest for every student, both in activities/athletics and academics. Our staff is second-to-none for their levels of compassion, knowledge, and support for each other and students.
What is something that people don’t know, but should know about Eaglecrest High School?
Again, another great question. I do believe that we are better when we can tell our own story, so thank you for allowing this opportunity. Eaglecrest is a high school that is about our community. This community- students, teachers, parents, and other community members- comes together in times of need, in times of celebration, and when we need to support each other. This community is about more than just education. It really is a unique feeling. I would encourage anyone from outside of this community to attend even a pep assembly, just to get a sense of what belonging, and support means here.
I mentioned that you are a true CHSAA supporter. As an Activities Director, how has CHSAA helped you?
CHSAA is doing something that it has never done in the past. You are intentionally bringing school Activities Directors into the CHSAA community. While this is a relatively new position, I see CHSAA supporting what we do, not only that, but you are also creating opportunities for us to gather for conversations with other people who have the same role and providing training through your conferences. You are helping build-up the position. Through this work and the ideas, we take away from your events, it is increasing school spirit and pride in how we build clubs and activities. Finally, I would say that CHSAA has made huge strides in making sure we develop in our own roles and feeling supported. I often felt that CHSAA was a lifeline for Athletic Directors, but now Activities Directors have a lifeline as well.
As a Student Leadership adviser, how has CHSAA impacted your organization?
Eaglecrest currently has two students serving as CHSAA State Representatives. Their experiences have amazing. Our group knows that they have resources and opportunities to work with others. The conferences and meetings that your office offers give us fresh ideas, a community that student leaders can rely on, and an adult community of advisers that I can rely on as well.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings about your school and community. Now let’s turn to you. Tell us about yourself.
I am a 5’1” mother of 3. I am an Italian girl who loves getting together with friends and family over a home-cooked meal. I am an avid walker. I enjoy party and event planning, in and out of school. As a teacher and school administrator, you know that I have a huge heart for all kids, and I love putting a smile on their faces through the activities we create and support.
You have been in education for 17 years. Walk us through that time.
I started my career in education when I was eight years old. I used to teach all the little kids on my block in my basement. My school was called CLUB and it ran for 2 hours every day over the summer. I was destined to be a teacher! My official career began at Eaglecrest High School. I taught Family and Consumer Sciences and LOVED every minute of it. I was asked to assist as a Student Council sponsor and before I knew it, I was the advisor. From there, an opportunity opened for me to be the Activities Director. I knew back when I was eight years old that I loved education and wanted to make a difference and impact the lives of students and their educational experience. I am grateful for my journey and all the doors that have been opened for me along the way. I have been in education for 17 years in a variety of roles; however, I have never looked at these roles as a job. The quote, “love your job and you will never work a day in your life'” is truly my motto. I just keep loving what I am doing.
Were you involved in extracurricular activities or sports in high school?
When I was in high school, I was super involved. So, I attended Grandview High School, where I was a member of the varsity Poms team, for four years. Not only was I on the team but I was captain. Now, you should know that we were not very good my freshman year; however, by the end of my senior season we won state! That was Grandview’s first state championship in any sport, so I love that I am part of that story. I was also captain of the varsity golf team, a member of Student Council, and co-founder of the GHS chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD). I did my best to take advantage of everything that Grandview had to offer, which led me to being involved in college.
The idea of attending a large college made me a little nervous, so I decided to join a sorority, hoping that would shrink the large campus feel. I was a Chi Omega and became very involved on campus. I made incredible friends and was introduced to a variety of activities and opportunities. Many of the things I did in my sorority are things I did as a leader in high school. It was an unforgettable experience and I made lifelong friends there as well. It led me to being involved as a teacher, and now as an administrator.
What do you love most about your current position?
Creating memories for students, hands down! There is nothing better than watching high school kids smile and have fun at school functions. It’s about moments. Those moments are what they will remember. Homecoming week, pep assemblies, and dances are some of the best parts of the school year.
What do you love most about the Cherry Creek School District and Eaglecrest High School?
I was born in raised in Cherry Creek Schools, having grown up in the Grandview feeder area. I feel so honored to be able to give back to the district. Many of my childhood memories stem from my experiences and relationships within CCSD. I now work at Eaglecrest High School. Eaglecrest is special! The students, staff, and community are caring, inclusive and full of what we call, Raptor pride. The school really does rally and support each other in all that we do. Eaglecrest has the most unbelievable school spirit and tradition. I am so proud to be a Raptor!
Can you talk to us about a couple of your mentors?
First, I must mention Susan McKinney, who was my student teacher mentor. I feel lucky to have learned from the best. I have not worked with her in 16 years; however, I find myself using some of the classroom management tools or reflecting on the advice she gave me till this day. She was caring, compassionate, and always took the time to get to know her students.
Another mentor I have is current EHS principal, Gwen Hansen-Vigil. I met Gwen when I was a first-year teacher at Eaglecrest, and I immediately felt a bond. As a new teacher and a coach, I saw Gwen as a mentor from the very beginning. Not only through athletics, but in my role as a teacher. Gwen, as an assistant principal was my teaching mentor. I can say that she is the true definition of a leader. Gwen contributed to my path as a leader here at EHS. Gwen is invested in the success of everyone at Eaglecrest. She works hard to provide the very best experiences for all students at our school, she leads by example, and is the very definition of a great leader. One of the best bits of advice she ever taught me is that success is in the details. Think about that. Gwen Hansen-Vigil is phenomenal, and I am proud to name Susan and Gwen as two mentors.
What is one tidbit of advice you would share with young women entering a male-dominated profession like yours?
My advice for young women in this field would be to stay strong and true to your convictions and what you see is best for students. Be confident in your leadership. Know your strengths and don’t every back down from what you believe is right.
How do you see yourself impacting the next generation of female leaders?
I hope that I have inspired young woman to pursue a leadership role in whatever profession they desire. I want the young woman to know that the sky is limit. With passion, confidence, and determination, anything is possible.
Melissa, thank you! From your early days as a student leader at Grandview, through your sorority time at CSU, to the work you are involved in at Eaglecrest, I hope all our readers feel your love for student opportunities in athletics and activities.