Digital Learning Specialist Melissa Brayall gets acknowledged for her amazing work she has done in the department of education. On November 8. Brayall was announced as the winner of the 2024 New Hampshire Society for Technology in Education Susan Janosz Technology Impact Award.
Mr. O’Connor spoke with Brayall back in early October to let her know that she had been nominated for the Technology Impact award, yet Brayall thought nothing of it. Once Brayall had submitted basic information about herself, her work resume, and was asked what she does to advance her professional practice, she mentioned positive aspects of her job and how they have changed her career.
“It is often difficult to deal with change or new things, but everyone here is so open, welcoming, and supportive,” Brayall said. “It makes it easy and fun to come to work every day.”
Brayall thanks LHS’s recently retired librarian, and current yearbook co-advisor, Lydia Campos who hired her for the position in 2021, who then taught Brayall everything she needed to know to take on the Digital Learning Specialist position.
“She was an incredible mentor to me as I transitioned out of the classroom and into this support role,” Brayall said. “She helped me figure out how to manage my time, how best to offer support, and she helped me build relationships with the staff,”
The award Brayall was given was an amazing opportunity, but she never thought she would’ve been the one who took it home.
“I was very grateful, but certainly didn’t think I would have any chance to win it because I know there are many other technology educators in the state who make an impact beyond their school,” Brayall said. “I focus my work and attention on supporting the students and staff at Londonderry High School.”
In winning this award Brayall has been recognized for her support of technology within the context of reconstruction and constant improvement on the schools resources. In addition to this award, she will receive a plaque, a check for $1,000, a Proclamation letter from the NH Government’s Office, and one year premium NHSTE membership.
As a recipient of the NHSTE Susan Janosz Technology Impact Award, Melissa will also be recognized at the NH Excellence In Education Awards (EDies) held in June.
Brayall finds great joy in the award she has just received.
“I am certainly incredibly honored to have received this award,” Brayall said. “Looking back at past recipients, I see a list of educators that I have looked up to for my entire career.”
Brayall acknowledges that her technology knowledge would not be what it is now without her previous leaders and educators helping her along the way.
“I am humbled to now join these amazing technology leaders and I look forward to continuing to share my technology knowledge and skills with the students and staff of Londonderry High School,” Brayall said.
