Port Chester Public Schools

Staff Spotlight: Get to Know Melissa Coletti, Third Grade Teacher at JFK Elementary

Welcome to Staff Spotlight, a new monthly series featuring the district's faculty and staff.

For this first installment, we spoke with Melissa Coletti, a third grade teacher at John F. Kennedy Elementary School. In her 30-plus years of service, Coletti has created a lasting impact, helping generations of Port Chester students.

Tell us about your role as a third grade teacher at JFK.

I’ve been an educator for Port Chester schools for 34 years. This has allowed me to make a real impact on the lives of the students I've taught. Now, I'm teaching the children of past students, which is such a privilege. It's been an honor to be able to inspire and guide children and foster their love of learning throughout the years. I've seen firsthand how their confidence and depth of knowledge can grow, even over the course of just one academic year. My fabulous third grade team and I meet weekly to share successes and challenges, and to discuss student progress and effective teaching practices. We have such a great time together!

What inspired you to become a teacher?

My father, retired Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Coletti, inspired me to pursue a career in education. My parents have always been my biggest supporters. They made sure I had a college education and gave me the guidance needed to be successful. During many summers, my mother helped me set up my classroom for the new year. We would even brainstorm creative bulletin board ideas and unique ways to decorate the room. As teachers, no matter how long you’ve been in the classroom, there are always opportunities to learn and grow.

What do you love most about your job?

I love that every year is a new adventure; a chance to connect and cultivate new relationships with students. I love hearing former students say, “Hi, Ms. Coletti” as they pass me in the hallways, and I enjoy working with colleagues who are like family.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing with my dogs, reading mysteries and watching Netflix.

Fun Fact: I was Mr. Richard Gregory’s fourth grade teacher when I briefly taught at the King Street School. We have been JFK colleagues for the past 15 years!

What is your life mantra or a quote that you live by?

A quote from Les Brown that I live by is:
"You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream."