Lighthouse Award Spotlight: Melissa Kim

This month, we were honored to celebrate Melissa Kim, Extensive Needs Preschool Teacher at Newland Elementary School in Fountain Valley School District, as WOCCSE’s very first Lighthouse Award recipient. Colleagues, administrators, district leaders, and SELPA team members gathered to recognize Melissa in a celebration that reflected the deep admiration and appreciation she has earned across our community.

Melissa is known for her unwavering belief in every child’s potential. Her classroom is a joyful and welcoming place where students are supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow in meaningful ways. She approaches teaching with compassion, creativity, and intentionality. She opens her classroom for others to learn alongside her, models routines and communication supports, and shares strategies that strengthen programs throughout the district.

She has also extended her expertise to support the Deaf and Hard of Hearing preschool classroom at Cox, demonstrating true partnership and care for students and staff alike.

Melissa embodies what it means to be a Lighthouse: a steady guide, a source of encouragement, and a shining example of excellence.

A special thank you to Lisa Colburn, WOCCSE Occupational Therapist, for nominating Melissa for this recognition.

Congratulations to Melissa and the FVSD team. We are so proud to celebrate you.