Three minutes with Melissa Purswell

Published 2:00 pm Monday, March 2, 2020

Armand Larive Middle School Educator of the Year

When and why did you move to Hermiston?

I met my husband at the University of Oregon and we moved back to his “hometown” of Hermiston in 1998.

What is your favorite place to eat in Hermiston?

My kitchen table! My family LOVES to cook.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Volunteer — whether with my students in the Kindness Club or serving lunch at Open Table with my boys, anywhere really! I think it’s so important to GIVE BACK to a community that GIVES SO MUCH!

What surprises you about Hermiston?

It’s not a surprise, but it’s what I LOVE the most is this community has the BIGGEST heartbeat when it comes to kids and for that I am forever grateful.

What was the last book you read?

”Rising Strong” by Brene Brown

What website or app do you use most other than Facebook?

Pinterest! There are all sorts of GREAT ideas for recipes, art projects, anchor charts and inspirational quotes.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

Italy

What is the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you?

Last year I was (hit by a pie) in the face by my two boys at a school wide assembly. It was THE BEST!

What is one of your goals for the next 12 months?

Listen more than I talk and write more handwritten notes to people I appreciate and love.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

My family and the life we’ve built together here in Hermiston.