Meet the C3 Coaches

Lori Haltom - Executive Director

In April 2024, Lori was appointed as the Executive Director of the College and Career Connections (C3) initiative at Midland College. This joint venture between Midland College and MISD aims to foster a culture of college and career awareness starting from the sixth grade. The initiative emphasizes a growth mindset and seeks to engage students and families in dual credit, postsecondary education, and career opportunities. Lori’s personal experiences have profoundly shaped her approach to education. She understands the importance of providing students with the right opportunities and guidance, much like she received. Lori is passionate about helping students realize their potential and ensuring that postsecondary education is accessible to all, regardless of their background. Lori earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and later obtained a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Texas Permian Basin. With over 20 years of experience in education, Lori has worn many hats. She began her career teaching English and coaching softball. Her dedication and passion for education led her to administrative roles, most notably serving as the Principal at Goddard Junior High. Throughout her career, Lori has been deeply committed to the students and faculty of the school districts in which she worked. 

jared Andrews

Jared is an experienced educator with 14 years of service, currently he is the lead Purple Side Coach for the C3 program at Midland College. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Angelo State University and a Master's degree from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB). Married to Misty Andrews, Jared is a proud father of three children: Sam, Luke, and Matt. Throughout his career, he has served in various roles in campus administration, which has enriched his understanding of student needs. Jared believes in the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students, recognizing that each learner brings unique experiences and perspectives to the classroom.

Campuses: Midland High School, Midland Freshman High School, Goddard JH, San Jacinto JH

Stacy Bender

Stacy is a veteran educator with 23 years of experience, currently part of the C3 program at Midland College. She is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. Stacy has an extensive teaching background, including 21 years as a high school science teacher across various school districts in North, Central, and West Texas, and two years as an education specialist at Region 17 Education Service Center in Lubbock. Her husband, Lee, is the recreation superintendent for the City of Odessa, and they have three children: Trae and his wife Jaycee, who live in Midland; Seth, a senior architectural engineering major at Texas A&M University, and his fiancée Maggie; and Clara, an elementary education major at West Texas A&M University. Stacy is passionate about working with students and helping them

Campuses: Legacy High School, Legacy Freshman High School

Melissa Boland

Melissa is a passionate educator with five years of experience, currently serving in the C3 program at Midland College. A graduate of The Pennsylvania State University, Melissa has lived in various parts of the world, including Dubai, UAE; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Ulsan, South Korea; and Anchorage, Alaska, before settling in Midland, Texas, near her husband’s hometown of Odessa, Texas. Married for 17 years and a mother to four boys, Melissa enjoys supporting her children at their sporting events and attending local sports gatherings. She has a special fondness for the Nittany Lions and the Texas Longhorns. Melissa's deep involvement in public education spans three different school districts, where she has taught and volunteered. Transitioning to higher education, she continues to advocate for access to knowledge and resources, drawing from her experiences as a first-generation college graduate to support other families on their educational journeys.

Campuses: ABELL, FASKEN, GREATHOUSE, BUSH, SCHARBAUER, BURNET, PARKER

chris burleson

Chris is an accomplished educator with seven years of experience, currently contributing to the C3 program at Midland College. He graduated from the University of Texas-Permian Basin, where he cultivated his passion for teaching. Chris is dedicated to creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment that inspires students to reach their full potential. His commitment to education and his expertise makes him a valuable asset to the Midland College community.

Campuses: ALAMO, BONHAM, DEZAVALA, YARBROUGH, JONES, LONG, RUSK

Andrea "Andy" Little

Andyis a dedicated educator with 15 years of experience, currently serving in the C3 program at Midland College. A graduate of Lubbock Christian University, Andy has taught science to students in grades 6-12 throughout her career. She is married to Wesley and is a proud mother of two children, Lucas and Bailey, and a grandmother to three grandchildren, Hunner, Ryder, and Onyx. Andy’s extensive teaching experience and commitment to education make her a valuable asset to the Midland College community.

Campuses: Midland HS, Midland Freshman HS

tasha Melcher

Tasha Melcher is a dedicated educator with nine years of experience, proudly serving in the C3 program at Midland College. A graduate of Texas Tech University, Tasha has strong roots in West Texas, where she was born and raised. She is married and a devoted mother to two young children. Tasha’s commitment to education is fueled by her deep connection to her community and her passion for nurturing young minds. Her philosophy of teaching centers on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment that fosters growth and development for all students.

Campuses: SAN JACINTO, BOWIE, FANNIN, LAMAR, HOUSTON, MILAM, PEASE

Nicole Ramos

Nicole is a seasoned educator with 18 years of experience spanning from pre-kindergarten to college, currently serving in the C3 program at Midland College as Lead Coach for the Maroon Side of MISD. A graduate of the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to education. She is a proud mother of five children, including three step-children, and has four grandchildren. Outside of her professional life, Nicole enjoys spending time outdoors, camping, hiking, and connecting with nature. Her diverse experiences and passion for teaching make her an invaluable member of the Midland College community.

Campuses: Legacy HS, Legacy Freshman HS, ABELL, ALAMO

Charles Reker

Charles is a dedicated educator with sixteen years of experience in education and is currently involved with the C3 program at Midland College. He holds a BBA from Texas Tech University and an M.Ed. from Lamar University. A native West Texan, Charles has taken on various leadership roles throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of impactful relationships and student-centered education. He has been married for twelve years, he and his wife, both in education, have an eleven-year-old son, Jack. Philosophically, Charles believes, as CJ Reynolds states, "In the classroom, relationships are king, and education is only ever about the students." Teaching is not just imparting knowledge but inspiring a genuine love of learning and life.

Campuses: Legacy HS, Legacy Freshman HS, ABELL, ALAMO

Thomas Ramos II

Thomas J. Ramos II is a dedicated educator with six years of experience, currently involved in the C3 program at Midland College. A graduate of the University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB), Thomas is committed to fostering a positive and inspiring learning environment. He is a devoted parent to a three-year-old son and is guided by the motto "Dream Big and Shoot for the Stars," which reflects his approach to education and his belief in the potential of every student. Thomas is excited to contribute to the growth and success of students.

Campuses:GoDDARD, EMERSON, BUNCHE, FRANKS, HENDERSON, SOUTH, SANTA RITA

Rodrigo Sanchez

Rodrigo is an enthusiastic educator with six years of classroom experience, currently contributing to the C3 program at Midland College. A graduate of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and a first-generation college student, Rodrigo is passionate about the process of learning and aims to instill a sense of wonder in his students. He loves the outdoors and enjoys spending time with his cat. He is an avid theatre watcher. Rodrigo is excited to work with Midland College, bringing his dedication and enthusiasm for education to the community.

Campuses: Midland HS, Midland Freshman HS