Retired Valley Middle School vocal music teacher Melanie Popejoy is one of six educators selected for the Grand Forks Foundation for Education's 2026 Teachers Hall of Fame, the Grand Forks Herald reported.
Popejoy taught at Valley for 12 years and founded the Grand Cities Children's Choir in 2002. The program began as part of the district's Summer Performing Arts program and has grown to four choirs that tour every three years. In 2014, Popejoy brought the ensemble to Carnegie Hall and featured a former student as a soloist.
Former Valley principal Jody Thompson credited Popejoy with raising the school's music program and influencing music education across the community. Popejoy said the recognition reflects the colleagues and students who shaped her more than four decades in education.
The foundation will honor Popejoy, Thompson and four other retired district educators Sept. 27 at Red River High School. The induction is part of a district recognition program, not a fee-based opportunity or application notice.
For more information, visit grandforksherald.com.