Caption: Melissa Thompson, fifth from left, stands Thursday with PSRC staff during a surprise retirement luncheon held in her honor at PSRC Central Office. She serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at PSRC.
LUMBERTON — Melissa Thompson has attended several retirement celebrations during her 30-year career in the Public Schools of Robeson County, but the celebration Thursday was different; it was held in her honor.
Thompson, who serves as the assistant superintendent of Human Resources at PSRC, was met with the feeling of shock as she entered a room full of the smiling faces of her colleagues, loved ones and friends at her own surprise retirement celebration.
One word came to mind for Thompson as she looked around the room and a smile emerged on her face; that word was appreciation.
“I was very appreciative of everyone who took time out of their busy day to celebrate with me,” she said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t have great people who supported me.”
Thompson’s last day in the role is Jan. 31.
She previously spoke of her retirement as a full circle moment. She is completing her career in the PSRC Central Office which is located in the same building in which she began her student teaching stint before officially becoming an educator: the former home of Janie C. Hargrave Elementary School.
The building, like Thompson’s career, holds many special memories for her. Those memories are filled with countless people whose paths have crossed hers as she worked as an educator and Human Resources professional.
“I won’t forget those people I worked with so closely along the way and those people that have helped me grow,” she said.
During Thompson’s career in the district, she has served as an educator at Rosenwald Elementary School, assistant principal at Magnolia Elementary, principal at Janie C. Hargrave Elementary, and PSRC Director of Licensure before assuming her current position.
Thompson’s path to the classroom was evident since her childhood, she said.
Thompson recalls her time as a child acting out the role of a teacher to a class of dolls and stuffed animals.
“I’ve just always wanted to be a teacher,” she said.
The influence of great teachers along the way also impacted her decision to enter the teaching profession, she said.
Pattie Mitchell, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and PSRC Board of Education, has known Thompson for many years.
“I’ve known her since she first began teaching,” Mitchell said. “Back then it was hard to find teaching jobs.”
Mitchell, whose office is closest to Thompson’s, said she will certainly miss Thompson when she retires.
“She has been a good friend and a wonderful person to work with,” Mitchell said.
Courtney Britt Sutton, director of PSRC Classified Personnel, said Thompson has always been helpful and understanding.
“We will miss her,” she said. “But, we are excited for her. We hope she enjoys making many new memories and spending time with her family members at her favorite place: the beach.”
PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson also shared well wishes for Thompson in her retirement.
“We certainly wish Mrs. Thompson all the best in her retirement. We thank her for her many years of service and her dedication to students and staff in the Public Schools of Robeson County. We hope she enjoys the next chapter of her life and often revisits fond memories made during her time here. Congratulations, Mrs. Thompson,” Williamson said.
Thompson also wished to share a special message for the Human Resources Department.
“Thanks for a job well done,” she said.
“Continue to lean on each other and work together. We are a team and we know it takes everyone working together to achieve success. I just want you to know that I will forever be grateful that I was a part of your team,” Thompson added.