LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Megan Weller

Position: Sixth Grade Social Studies Teacher
School: Forest Glen Middle School
School District: Broward County Public Schools
City, State: Coral Springs, FL

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Megan Weller, was nominated by her principal, Ronald Forsman.

In her 18 years as a middle school educator, Ms. Weller has changed the lives of countless individuals, both students and peers. She is consistently rated as a Highly Effective educator, and commits to sparking interest in history as well as teaching students how to read, think, and problem solve in the Social Studies classroom. She employs a multitude of technology and reading strategies to challenge both struggling readers and advanced students, always pushing them to achieve more.

Ms. Weller adds to the positive climate of her school. She runs a "New to the School" orientation before school starts, making new teachers feel at ease with the transition, whether they are brand new teachers or seasoned veterans. She also developed the "Aspire" mentoring program to reach struggling and at-risk stduents. Ms. Weller truly wants students to connect with their peers, the teachers and staff. Her goal is to have everyone feel like they are part of something great. She is always willing to train one-on-one or in groups in technology, reading strategies, and RTI strategies. Colleagues often seek her out for advice, knowing that she is knowledgeable and ethical, and that she would never repeat peers' struggles to others.

Ms. Weller is a leader in multiple facets of her school and district. She is the Social Studies Department Chair, working with other leaders on curriculum and school goals. She is the SAC Chair, where she continuously works with educators, parents, and community leaders on school improvement initiatives. Ms. Weller has also delivered trainings on Professional Learning Communities and Project-Based Learning to the school and throughout the district.

Ms. Weller perceptively finds needs within her school and fills them. She saw that a small amount of students in the school were struggling both academically and behaviorally, so she created a mentoring program for these students. These students had one adult mentor each, and Ms. Weller coordinated and implemented rewards for those students who improved both academically and behaviorally with the help of their respective mentors. Her school has seen tremendous improvement from their "most difficult" students. She also started a book club for peers based on the growth mindset, training teachers on how to instill this mindset in their students. This shifts the school culture to a atmosphere of always trying to challenge one's self and doing one's best.

"Ms. Weller is a big reason why Forest Glen Middle School is a great place to be," said Forsman.

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Comments (16)

Mitchell Comiskey Posted over a year ago

I've had the pleasure of working closely with Megan for 6 years. She is a fabulous teacher, always inventing new ways to excite and educate her students. Her lessons are often modeled to her subject area colleagues as exemplary models of innovative teaching. Beyond her teaching expertise, Megan is compassionate educator who always finds time to meet with students and help them overcome the social and emotional challenges of growing into adults.

Russell Anderson Posted over a year ago

I have worked with Ms. Weller for the last 6 years and she is a hard working professional. As one of the department chairs at Forest Glen, he has run our Social Studies department very efficiently and always offers new and innovative ideas. She works tirelessly on a daily basis and always goes the extra mile in support of the school. Ms. Weller is always willing to help out students as well as colleagues in any capacity possible.

Roberta Rich Posted over a year ago

My cousin Megan Weller is a wonderful choice for this award. As an organizer of family reunions, she demonstrates her ability to address the differing desires of family members, just as she individualizes the needs of her students.

Beth Osborne Posted over a year ago

I have been in the school system for approximately 27 years, and approximately 17 years as an administrator. I have had the pleasure of working with Megan Weller for the past 5-6 years. She truly is one of the best teachers I have worked with throughout my career. Not only is she a school leader, but she always has the kids best interest at heart, encouraging students to always do their best. When you walk into her classroom, you feel a sense of community as the children are engaged in her lesson. Very often, the students are working in groups and discussing the content. They are creating projects together which help students open up and participate in the lesson. Ms. Weller also uses technology in her classroom several times a week. She is a leader in training other teachers to utilize technology as well. Ms. Weller also runs our Professional Learning Community, which consists of 16 teachers. She plans how the time will be spent and shares ideas. Ms. Weller believes in educating the whole child, even adds Social Emotional Learning strategies during her teaching. Ms. Weller coaches our boys volleyball team. I truly feel she is an ideal candidate for the Lifechanger of the Year nominee.

Aaron Weller Posted over a year ago

Ms. Megan Weller is a dear cousin and a wonderful friend. It is no surprise that she has been nominated for this award. Her love of teaching extends back many years including to some formative ones : ), where alongside a table of younger relatives she often demonstrated a natural skill for leadership and joyously conveying teachable moments.

Dutinda Whitehead Posted over a year ago

I worked with Megan when she taught at Rickards Middle School. Megan was such an inspiration to her students by her method of teaching and by the time she spent helping them in whatever they needed. She truly cared about all who passed through her doors and would go above be and beyond for them.

STEPHEN BENICK Posted over a year ago

I have been working with Ms. Weller for the past 15 years. In that time, I have observed how she has successfully taught students at various levels. She has developed programs at two schools which target students who need additional academic support so they can succeed.

Harry Weller Posted over a year ago

As Megan's uncle I have known her for many years and at many different stages of her life. I have always known her to be tenacious with her goals, thoughtful about her pursuits and caring toward others. It didn't surprise me in the least when she left the business world to become a teacher. As an educator myself I knew immediately what kind of impact she would have for children, for fellow teachers and for parents. I wholeheartedly support Megan Weller for this award.

Robert Rivera Posted over a year ago

Excellent candidate. Her impact goes beyond the class. For years she has dedicated her time and energy enriching the life of her students.

Mary Lou W Posted over a year ago

What an excellent choice Ms. Weller would be for this award. This caring teacher spends many hours of the day and evening ensuring that her students (many levels) are challenged and motivated. As already mentioned, she provides information to and guidance for her fellow teachers.

Dawn Pappous Posted over a year ago

Ms. Weller's devotion and drive are an asset to her school and community. Her optimistic, inclusive, and innovative approach to connecting to students and teachers alike is inspiring. Although Megan's humility would have her shy away from such accolades, she embodies the true essence of what it means to be a teacher. She motivates and instills confidence in those around her, as she promotes the understanding that knowledge and wisdom are the keys to opening doors and changing lives.

Terri Aucella Posted over a year ago

Megan is a stellar educator who serves as a mentor to fellow teachers.

Natasha Posted over a year ago

Well deserved!

Jason Dubbs Posted over a year ago

She spends more than 8 hours per day trying to positively influence the lives of children. In her spare time she “enjoys” going to meetings, solving problems, and generally helping out her supervisors. She’s also constantly pleasant to everyone she come into contact with. Plus she treats her mother very well, and we often ignore that.

Maricia Johnson Posted over a year ago

Ms. Weller is the epitome of what teaching is about!

Lauren Barbato Posted over a year ago

I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Weller for 10 years. Ms. Weller is an extremely hard working and dedicated teacher. She has the ability to work with every level of student and ensure their success, both academically and personally. Ms. Weller is an asset to the school on every level.