I’ve had the chance to work with Carol for over a decade as Principal of our Alternative High School. During her tenure there she has changed the narrative of the building from being one where students were sent to one of where students wanted to be there. The students were held to high standards in terms of attendance, behavior, performance, and outcomes. She truly flipped the definition of alternative schooling from being that of a place to send students who you needed out of your high school to one where it was a place that fit students’ unique needs.
Bryan Bruckman, Counselor
Saline High School
Having worked in Alternative Education for many years, I witnessed first hand the transformation under Carol Melcher. The program went from a bit of a dumping ground for students with nowhere else to be placed, to a space where students had a chance to learn skills in a supportive environment that demanded accountability by the student themselves as the steward of their own education. From career planning to service learning to job shadowing, students were afforded the opportunity to really refocus their post high school trajectory through the program curated by Carol.
Jason Pickett, LMSW, School Social Worker
Saline High School
Get up, get dressed and show up! Together we can do the rest.
An educational experience that puts social-emotional well-being first. Without it, there is no learning.
An educational experience that puts social-emotional well-being first. Without it, there is no learning.
Tracy Lamb, Instructional leader
Saline Alternative High School
I have worked with Mrs. Melcher for about 16 years. Her knowledge and expertise in education is second to none. She is constantly focused on student success and staff development. I am a better teacher because of her leadership and guidance.
Bradley Woehlke, lead teacher
Saline Alternative High School
Mrs. Melcher has had a wonderful impact on my life, and I would not be where I am without her. Not only did she zoom in to hospital meetings for me, or simply just stay by my side when we had to call emergency services for my medical issues. She tailored my classes so I could learn the material so it wouldn’t stress me, she met with me whenever I needed anything. She opened her office to me whenever I needed to rest. She wrote recommendation letters for me, and even spoke to college counselors.
I have never met someone so dedicated to her students, and always willing to help. No matter what I always felt like a priority and knew that whatever came she would have my back.
She is the absolute best person to set up any alternative programs, as she has put her heart and soul into it and it shows.
I have never met someone so dedicated to her students, and always willing to help. No matter what I always felt like a priority and knew that whatever came she would have my back.
She is the absolute best person to set up any alternative programs, as she has put her heart and soul into it and it shows.
Neah Bloch, student
When our daughter was significantly impacted by a serious illness that exacerbated her previously managed chronic condition, we needed a solution that was flexible to allow her frequent doctor visits, school absences while still allowing her to continue her studies. Carol worked with her to create a way for her to continue her classes as we navigated doctors, hospitals and supporting her. Carol’s experience, understanding and support made our daughter feel understood and welcome, and made us grateful that she could continue her studies in a manner that worked with what we were going through. This involved both in-person and online classes. Our daughter will be graduating this May and attending a four year university in the fall. Without this flexibility and support from Carol, our daughter would not be where she is today.
Karyn & Erik Bloch, parents
Carol’s level of expertise in the areas of academics, special education, mental health, safety, and security are unmatched nationally. Carol has developed, implemented, and facilitated an alternative program that truly addresses all the components that contribute to the student’s success. Carol has institutionalized student health and well being into the program on a daily basis that has truly contributed to the academic success of the students that were fortunate enough to attend the program
Mark Schuby, LMSW, School Social Worker
Saline Area Schools
Carol is an absolute master of organization, efficiency, and integrity. Her ability to create effective and meaningful processes for both students and staff alike goes unmatched. Carol will see her work through, problem solving, multi-tasking, and following up to ensure that all aspects of a project are accounted for. I’m thankful every day that I was able to experience her strong leadership and receive her guidance. Carol has definitely contributed immensely to the success that I’ve had in the workplace and to many students that she has come in contact with. She truly cares about students receiving the best possible education experience.
Kelly Rogers, Online Learning Coordinator
Saline Area Schools
When we were in a total bind and no one else would help us, Carol stepped in and was able to get our son into the alternative high school online program and he successfully graduated from Saline HS. Without Carol and her knowledge, kindness, and unwavering support, this would not have happened. She is truly one of the last of her kind. Always going the extra mile, with compassion and a skill set I’ve yet to see anyone match.
Wendy Walper, parent
I wasn’t aware that Carol retired. We owe her so much for helping Alyssa get through some very difficult and tricky times over the years; with the pandemic and other health scares my family has had to face. She is a fantastic woman and I would love to have wished her farewell and offer my gratitude for so much of her helpfulness and insights.
Monica Muldoon, parent
Saline Alternative High School has become a beacon of opportunity, growth, and individualized education, and much of this transformation is due to Carol Melcher’s visionary leadership. When she first stepped into her role, the school faced significant challenges, with a small student body and limited resources. Today, it is a thriving and dynamic learning environment that not only meets the diverse needs of its students but also fosters their development into compassionate, community-minded individuals.
Carol’s dedication to each student’s success was the cornerstone of this transformation. She introduced a deeply personalized approach to education, ensuring every learner felt valued, supported, and understood. By embracing innovative teaching practices and nurturing strong relationships with students and families, Carol cultivated a culture of belonging and possibility.
A defining element of Saline Alternative High School’s growth under Carol’s direction was the integration of service learning. She recognized the profound impact of connecting students with their community, fostering academic achievement and a sense of purpose and empathy. Through projects that allowed students to give back and make a difference, she instilled life skills and resilience that extended far beyond the classroom.
What once was a struggling program has become a robust and growing school, widely recognized for its ability to adapt to and uplift its students. Carol Melcher’s leadership exemplifies what is possible when education prioritizes compassion, innovation, and a commitment to meeting individual needs. Her legacy at Saline Alternative High School is one of hope, empowerment, and enduring impact.
Carol’s dedication to each student’s success was the cornerstone of this transformation. She introduced a deeply personalized approach to education, ensuring every learner felt valued, supported, and understood. By embracing innovative teaching practices and nurturing strong relationships with students and families, Carol cultivated a culture of belonging and possibility.
A defining element of Saline Alternative High School’s growth under Carol’s direction was the integration of service learning. She recognized the profound impact of connecting students with their community, fostering academic achievement and a sense of purpose and empathy. Through projects that allowed students to give back and make a difference, she instilled life skills and resilience that extended far beyond the classroom.
What once was a struggling program has become a robust and growing school, widely recognized for its ability to adapt to and uplift its students. Carol Melcher’s leadership exemplifies what is possible when education prioritizes compassion, innovation, and a commitment to meeting individual needs. Her legacy at Saline Alternative High School is one of hope, empowerment, and enduring impact.
Betty Rosen-Leacher, Training Facilitator
Opportunity Thrive, Educator Wellness Program Manager
Over the past 14 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside Carol as the Saline Community Education Director. In that time, I’ve witnessed her unmatched dedication to students, her innovative approach to education, and her ability to create a culture of support and growth. Her leadership has inspired not only her staff but also the broader community, including myself.
Through her efforts, Saline Alternative High School became a beacon of hope and growth, emphasizing therapeutic support alongside academics. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment and surrounding herself with a dedicated team, Carol helped create a school where every student could thrive.
Today, thanks to her commitment and innovative programs, the school celebrates a 100% graduation rate. Carol’s legacy is not just the diplomas earned, but the lives transformed, proving that with compassion, resilience, and a clear vision, every challenge can be met, and every student can succeed. Working alongside such a passionate and determined leader who has made an indelible mark on Saline Area Schools and its students has been an honor.
Through her efforts, Saline Alternative High School became a beacon of hope and growth, emphasizing therapeutic support alongside academics. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment and surrounding herself with a dedicated team, Carol helped create a school where every student could thrive.
Today, thanks to her commitment and innovative programs, the school celebrates a 100% graduation rate. Carol’s legacy is not just the diplomas earned, but the lives transformed, proving that with compassion, resilience, and a clear vision, every challenge can be met, and every student can succeed. Working alongside such a passionate and determined leader who has made an indelible mark on Saline Area Schools and its students has been an honor.
Brian Puffer, Community Education Director
Saline Area Schools