Courtesy of RRISD

Newly-elected RRISD Place 2 Trustee Ms. Melissa Ross hopes that she can make a widespread impact on not only the student bodies, but the general community. She makes a point not to seek recognition, but rather pour her efforts into creating tangible change.

Fifth generation teacher-turned board member, newly elected Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD) Place 2 Trustee Ms. Melissa Ross aims to implement change within the district. Her mind is set on representing and supporting not only students, but also the larger community.

“As a school board member, I have the potential — along with the board as a whole — to make a difference for 50,000 students and our community,” Ms. Ross said.

Originally set on going to school for art, Ms. Ross found inspiration through her family to give back to the community. Ms. Ross then transitioned into education, and after teaching for 10 years, some of which she spent as the lead of the visual arts department at Westwood, she decided to leave the teaching field after having her second child.

“I couldn’t afford childcare on a teacher’s salary,” Ms. Ross said. “So, I stayed home and [eventually got] into [Parent Teacher Association (PTA)] .”

Feeling sympathetic towards the teachers, she began avidly helping their community as best she could as a PTA member. After spending time with her children and dedicating her efforts towards their growth, Ms. Ross started looking again into public education and funding.

“I’ve always been in this role where I’ve really wanted to support teachers,” Ms. Ross said. “I know how difficult [teaching] is, and so I always continue to work on that level of advocacy.”

More focused on the success of the district, Ms. Ross doesn’t hope for recognition. She simply wants every kid to be as successful as possible, and to support the goals of the district.

“I don’t need people to know who I am,” Ms. Ross said. “I need them to have faith and believe in the work we’re doing.”

Outside of the hustle and bustle of the board, Ms. Ross takes pleasure in her hobbies. She particularly enjoys ceramics and pottery.

“I was a professional potter for a while,” Ms. Ross said. “I [actually] started the ceramics department [at Westwood].”

Other than pottery, Ms. Ross enjoys punk rock music with her husband. Running a record label at 16 years old, she’s always listened to independent music.

“I grew up as a punk rock kid,” Ms. Ross said. “That’s how I met my husband — he was in a band, and I put out [his] CDs.”

Surprisingly, considering her new career, Ms. Ross is an introvert. Not the typical personality type for public speakers, Ms. Ross strives to show she can still do the work no matter your disposition.

“It’s more of [combatting] this idea that people think about politics as big personalities, and showy people,” Ms. Ross said. “If I’m doing my job right, I don’t need to give speeches.