Interview with CRC Principal Melissa Leal:
"I am a small town girl who had no means to make it as far as I have. It’s because of my hard work, great mentors, and a can-do attitude that I have made it this far. I am proof that ANY kid can accomplish anything that they want with the right attitude. I paid my way through school by working full time in the airline industry.
I always struggled academically in school, so I never thought I would even go to college let alone go as far as I have. But once I found my passion it was easy to keep going, I just took each day and each class one at a time.”
“My advice to kids is to try as many new things as they can, even if they aren’t good at them. Trying new things will help you find what you love. Once you’ve found what you love, it’s easy to create goals and get to work. I have a sign hanging in my office that reads – ‘Try - there are no mistakes, only lessons.’ It’s a motto I try to live by and encourage others to do the same. Also be yourself, I wish I would’ve listened to people who told me that it’s okay to be myself. I was so concerned with what others thought that I lacked the confidence to just be me. It took me a while to figure that out.“
Melissa lives in Portola with her husband and two little boys. She is a Plumas County local and holds a teaching credential, a Master’s of Science in Reading, and an Admin Degree. Before becoming the CRC principal, she was previously a teacher, instructional coach, and the Assistant Director of Long Valley Charter School. In her spare time she enjoys gardening, cooking, hiking, baseball, and being outdoors with her family.
