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Wlaf1450
By Charlotte Underwood
CAMPBELL COUNTY, TN (WLAF)- Educators make a difference in students’ lives every day. For many students, having a school employee who cares and goes that extra mile can be the difference in a successful education and graduation. We’ve all had that teacher, or school employee who inspired us or helped in some way. That’s why WLAF and Eagle Tire Pros salute all of our hardworking educators with a weekly feature.
Melissa Troutman is Eagle Tire Pros Educator of the Week. She is an Adviser with Douglas Cherokee TRIO Talent Search and works at Campbell County High School and serves 200 students in her program. Talent Search is a federally funded program designed to assist high school students and assist them to enroll in a post-secondary institution.
Troutman was born and raised in LaFollette. Her parents are Tip and Gussie Jones.
“My husband, Jeff Troutman, and I live in LaFollette, and have two wonderful children. My daughter, Sydney Sexton, successfully works in the medical field, and my son, Parker Troutman, is getting ready to graduate from UTK,” Troutman said.
She attended University of Tennessee Knoxville, receiving a Paralegal Certification, and is also a graduate of King University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
“I love spending time with my family, and nothing brings me more joy than watching my own children succeed from the sidelines.”
As an Adviser with Douglas Cherokee TRIO Talent Search working at CCHS, Troutman serves 200 students in her program.
“Talent Search is a federally funded program designed to assist high school students and assist them to enroll in a post-secondary institution. Students have the opportunity to tour several colleges/universities, eat in college cafeterias, attend cultural trips, plays, and museums. Talent search offers so much more!” Troutman said.
As an educator, Troutman said she had been inspired by many mentors, former teachers, and experiences that “sparked a passion for learning and a desire to make a positive impact on others.”
“Watching my own children and being able to offer them the support they have needed to be successful in their educational journeys has been my biggest inspiration. I love being able to empower students, share knowledge, and contribute to the growth of the community. Sometimes I just let them know… “I see them.” Troutman said.
Her favorite part of education is seeing the moment when a student truly understands a concept or feels confident in their abilities.
“It’s rewarding to witness growth, interest, and the anticipation of discovery. I have worked in the classroom many times before, providing support, inspiration, and collaboration to make the educational environment enriching and dynamic. I want my students’ families to share in the joy I feel watching them succeed. That is my encouragement. I am honored and blessed to be selected for this nomination. Thank you so much!”
Every Thursday, WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood features the WLAF – Eagle Tire Pros teacher of the week. That educator also receives a free oil change from Eagle Tire Pros. To nominate a teacher for teacher of the week honors, please send your nomination to wlaf@1450wlaf.com. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-03/26/2026-6AM)