In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Melissa Pollock
What do you always find yourself saying?
Absolutely!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My Grandpa Manderson and his record collection. I feel at peace when I am with him.
If you were to receive any existing public award, what award would you like to win?
The Prime Minister's Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education. This would be an honour because the families I work with would be the nominators.
If you could spend a day with any historical figure, who would you choose and why?
Johnny Cash. I could listen to him sing all day and I'm sure he would have great stories.
Who inspires you?
Children. They remind me of the importance of simplicity. It's the little things that matter most, they are never in a rush, and they live in the here and now.
What are three things on your bucket list?
1. To write a children's story book. That becomes a best seller.
2. To raise my daughter to be kind to everyone, to be a hard worker, and to not be afraid.
3. Retire comfortably!
If you had an enormous yacht, what would you name it?
Emerson Rose. This is my daughter's name who is named after my dad (Emerson is his middle name) and his mother (Rose).
If you could foresee a single day of your future in its entirety, what date would you select?
I look forward to whatever my future holds. I choose to be surprised.
What are you passionate about?
1. Life. There is so much in this world to look forward to.
2. Challenges. I love to work hard, learn new things, and help others.
3. Family. I wouldn't be where I am today without each member of my family and I intend on passing those bonds on to my daughter.
4. My Preschool. I love my "job."
5. Being a good human.
What has been your favourite day of your life, up to this point?
The second half of the day my daughter was born. I always knew I would love my child more than anything in the world but there is no explaining the emotions of that day once it actually arrives. Seeing the light in my husband’s eyes when he looked at her will never leave my memory. The firm pat on the back from my dad meant I did good and my mom knowing exactly what would make me feel better made the day just right. To make the day just perfect, my sister never left my side and still hasn't. This day would be a tough one to beat.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
I believe in the power of positive thought so some say "Melissa everything always just works out for you", but I work hard at anything I do. Being able to buy my home with a very reputable preschool already up and running is my proudest accomplishment. Thanks to my husband and family I was able to achieve my dream. I had a slower start but more quickly than I could have ever predicted the good word was spread and I now have a very full preschool with amazing families that I have had the pleasure of getting to know. I have accomplished my goals for now.
Where is your favourite place to dine in Kelowna? What do you like about it?
Ozeki's. They have very friendly service.
What is your favourite activity or event in Kelowna? Why?
I am happiest at the ball fields, the ice rink, the ski hill, and anywhere in the wilderness. Kelowna is a great place to live an active lifestyle.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Miss Melissa's Preschool
What does your business/organization do?
Miss Melissa’s Preschool offers a wide range of learning, but most importantly, we offer a positive and safe environment for children to explore.
Where can people find you or your business online?
www.missmelissaspreschool.ca
What is your mission?
That all the children are enthusiastic and excited for every class.
If you could achieve one thing within your field, what would it be?
For the children that attend preschool to remember their time here. Even if it’s just a feeling of happiness.
Where do you want your business/organization to be in five years?
Just the way it is!
What three qualities do you feel that your business/organization exemplifies?
1. Respect. Every family is treated with the same care and understanding as soon as they join the program.
2. Dedication. Every child learns and grows in their own way. I will work to find the best way for each individual to succeed.
3. Fun. If children are learning and growing while having a great time then I am doing my "job."
What would you like to say to your employees/volunteers?
Thank you!
How does your business/organization impact the community?
Early childhood education is where it all begins, so in partnership with parents I hope that the children here grow and explore and accomplish great things wherever they end up.
If I could change one thing about Kelowna, it would be:
Close the gap between cost of living and income so that more families could be at home together.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
It’s a perfect balance of a hip city feel with the great outdoors minutes away. There is something for everyone.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
"Sometimes you need to talk to a three year old so you can understand life" – Unknown.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below, and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kelowna!
