The beginning of the new school year provides a great opportunity to highlight Melissa Lopez, Director of Quest Kids Academy!
Melissa has been a Quest team member since 2011, starting off as a supporting therapist at our Quest Kids Therapy Center in Orlando.
During her time at the therapy center, she made an impact on some of her clients who were also students at Quest Kids Academy. One of those students was Nate who is well known within Quest for his infectious smile and enduring positive attitude.
“When I first met Miss Melissa, she was my therapist at the therapy center when I first started Quest, and she helped me work on patience,” says Nate. Nate talks fondly about how Ms. Melissa helped him learn and of the many fond memories he and other longtime students have of their time with her.
After a couple of years at the therapy center Melissa transitioned to Quest Kids Academy, our K-12 school environment tailored to students with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Melissa assumed the Assistance Director role at QKA in 2016. As the years progressed Melissa thrived in her new role. She became Director of QKA in 2018. QKA has since thrived and grown under her leadership.
“I think what’s always been fun about working with Melissa is that she’s willing to try new things,” says Frances Torres, Director of Curriculum and Instruction at QKA. “Her willingness to experiment and improve gave me lots of opportunities as a teacher that I wouldn’t have had at a traditional school.”
“Melissa is the driving engine of Quest Kids Academy operations,” says Rob Cage, Vice President of Education and Employment. “She is meticulous in the details, dedicated to her students and team and is thorough in her role as director.”
Melissa’s team members are also quick to praise Melissa’s leadership. “She always makes me feel heard,” says Deke Willis, a Registered Behavior Technician at QKA. “Any concerns that I have, I feel like she takes them seriously and implements changes when needed.” Deke has been with QKA for 5 years and through the many changes over the years, the one constant has been Melissa’s leadership and guidance.
Our new staff have bright things to say as well for Melissa. “She’s so supportive. It’s been great working here. Whenever there is a concern, she’s very quick to check in,” says Erin Hennessy, a new Job Coach at QKA.
At Quest, we’re extremely grateful for the years of service Melissa has provided.
From all of Quest, thank you Melissa!
