Hi, my name is Melissa Beckman

I am a 2nd grade teacher at Mountain School.

I am a mother to the sweetest little boy, named Calvin.

I am a partner to an outstanding educator and wonderful man, Portlan.

I am a life-long student, practicing heated yoga and meditation, as well as stained glass art, painting, and gardening.

I am an adventurer, camping - sometimes climbing - and exploring the incredible outdoors.

I am a human that is so grateful to get to know and discover new things with your child this school year.

  • I grew up in Soquel and went to school in the SUESD district.

    Fun fact: My great aunt attended Mountain school in the 50’s… pretty insane.

  • I attended Cal Poly Pomona and completed with a B.A. in Liberal Studies. Then, I spent a year at UCSC and earned my teaching credential and Master’s in Education.

  • I have worked with kids of all ages in various settings. From coaching varsity softball teams, to leading an after school phonics group or being an overnight camp counselor at science camp, I have really enjoyed working with children.

    Professionally, I was a student teacher at Gault Elementary (5th Grade) and Main Street Elementary (2nd Grade). I have taught a 4th grade summer school class as well as SDC preschool. Before I had Calvin, I taught 2nd Grade for two years at Santa Cruz Gardens.

  • As an adult, I remember 3 things from my experience in 2nd grade. I remember an incredible science experiment, the short story that I wrote and was beyond proud of - named “Bobby the Cat” - and the way my teacher made me feel. My ultimate goal and hope for my future students is that when they are grown, they will look back and remember how encouraged, supported, challenged, accepted, and loved they were.