Melissa Culp is a second grade teacher and K-5 Literacy Coach for Lincoln County Schools in Denver, NC. She instructs students in all subjects while also supporting the literacy instruction of her K-5 colleagues. She earned her Masters Degree in K-12 Reading, Language and Literacy from UNC Charlotte in 2008 and earned and renewed National Board Certification in 2006, 2015, and 2025. She is the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Southwest Region Teacher of the Year. Her passion is working to support students’ well being through equipping teachers with the knowledge, willingness to connect and commitment to seeking out and providing resources. She loves to spend time outdoors with Jeff, her husband of 23 years and her sons Hardin (16) and William (12).