I have been in education for over 13 years. I love this district so much, especially Riverview – I began my teaching career here! During my time in education, I have taught first grade, second grade, and kindergarten. I also spent 5 years as an ELL specialist here and worked with students in kindergarten through 2^nd grade. There’s nothing like working with kids at this age. They learn so much, change tremendously, and say the funniest things. I am thrilled to teach your child!

Welcome to first grade!  My name is Melissa Hembrey, and I truly love my job!  It is such a rewarding experience to watch children develop throughout the year.  I have a passion for teaching little ones.  The enthusiasm they bring to school each day makes teaching a blast!  My sweet students are always excited to learn with the world around them being so new.  There is never a dull moment in first grade!  This is my twenty-second year teaching first grade in the De Soto School District.  I taught one year at Woodsonia Elementary and then transferred to Riverview to become an original staff member.  I have an Early Childhood Degree from KU (ROCK CHALK!!!), an Elementary Education Degree from Washburn, Master’s Degree from Avila, and received my certificate to teach English Language Learners from K-state.  (I do root for the Wildcats when they are not playing KU.)

I am excited to be able to spend my days teaching first grade. This is my seventh year here at Riverview Elementary. My family moved back to the KC area from the Chicago suburbs and settled here in the district. I was a sub for several years. During this time, RE was always my favorite school to work in.

I have a B.A. in Elementary Education from Adams State University in southern Colorado. I met my husband David in New Mexico and we have been married for 34 years. We have 4 wonderful children, 26, 24, 21, and 19 who keep us busy with various activities.

Before staying home to raise our kids I taught full day kindergarten, 1^st, 5^th, and 8^th grade.  Over the 20 years I was not teaching, I stayed active in education through a wide variety of part-time work, volunteer opportunities, and home schooling our children.

I am so excited to be a part of the Riverview family! This will be my 10th year teaching in the elementary classroom. I graduated from The University of Kansas with my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and my Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I taught 2nd and 3rd grade for nine years before taking some time to be at home with my girls and teaching preschool part-time. My husband and I have two girls that also attend Riverview. I am so excited to be back in the classroom and to be teaching 1st grade! My favorite part about teaching is sharing my love of learning and watching the growth each child makes throughout the year. I am so excited to have your child in my classroom and for the fun we'll have together.