For Morrissa Tucker, Meridian CUSD #101 has always been more than a school—it’s home. A 2019 graduate and now a paraprofessional in the Pre-K program, Morrissa spends her days nurturing young learners, running her own business as a licensed esthetician, and taking online classes through Shawnee College. At just 23 years old, she embodies determination, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to growth.

Morrissa Tucker begins her day at 7:30 a.m., greeting the 3- and 4-year-olds in Ms. Couch’s Pre-K classroom. Her role as a teacher’s aide is to support the children academically and emotionally, starting with simple but significant tasks like helping them write their names.

“We work on their names all year,” Morrissa explains. “It’s amazing to see the progress—from kids who couldn’t write at all to those proudly writing their names by the end of the year.”

The day unfolds with activities like meditation, circle time, and dancing, giving the children opportunities to learn and expend their boundless energy. Morrissa emphasizes the importance of teaching discipline and responsibility, noting that school is a structured contrast to many of their home lives.

Although Morrissa enjoys her role, she’s come to realize that teaching may not be her long-term path. “I always wanted to be a teacher, but now I think my calling might be more as a counselor or even a principal,” she reflects. “I want to help kids one-on-one and understand the deeper reasons behind their behavior.”

Her experience as the second oldest of seven siblings has equipped her with the skills to connect with and guide young people. “I’ve always been the one to look out for everyone,” she says. “It’s natural for me to want to help.”

In addition to her work at Meridian, Morrissa runs a thriving business as a lash technician. Certified as a licensed esthetician, she began honing her craft at 15, practicing on friends and classmates. Today, she sees clients after school, often working until 8 p.m.

“Lashes are my breadwinner,” Morrissa says. “It’s what allows me to travel, save, and build a comfortable life.” Her dedication to her clients is evident, with many driving hours just to see her.

Despite her success, Morrissa remains grounded, often using her income from the school to support her students. “If a child doesn’t have a blanket for nap time or snacks for a party, I make sure they’re taken care of,” she shares. “It’s not about the money—it’s about the kids.”

Morrissa is also a student, balancing her career with online classes at Shawnee College. “Education is so important,” she says. “Even if you don’t know exactly where you’re headed, learning opens doors and exposes you to opportunities you might not have considered.”

She credits Meridian with instilling in her the value of perseverance. “Meridian taught me to fight for what I believe in and to go after what I want,” she says. “It’s a lesson I carry with me every day.”

Reflecting on her time as both a student and staff member, Morrissa has a clear vision for the future of Meridian. She dreams of a school that’s not just seen as a small, rural district but as a hub of opportunity.

“I want people to invest in these kids,” she says passionately. “Come to their games, support their fundraisers, and see their potential. These kids are our future, and they deserve every chance to succeed.”

Morrissa also hopes for more resources to enhance the educational experience. “We have great teachers, but we need better tools to prepare our students for the world,” she explains. “Meridian is a family, and like any family, we want to see each other thrive.”

For Morrissa, success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about lifting others up. Whether she’s guiding a preschooler through a challenging day, perfecting a client’s lashes, or supporting her siblings’ dreams, she approaches life with a sense of purpose and service.