Melissa Helmerich started teaching in a multi-age classroom and has taught in a variety of school settings. She has taught multiple grade levels throughout her career and spent five years as an instructional coach. During her time as an instructional coach, she helped her school implement Illustrative Mathematics. After seeing how all students could see themselves as mathematicians, Melissa returned to the classroom to experience an entire year of Illustrative Mathematics. This experience reinforced her belief that all students can learn when they experience good core instruction. When she is not teaching or learning, Melissa enjoys the Colorado outdoors.