Meet the Team

---

 Bishay Faris Elshoukarey is a Program Specialist for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Department of Teacher Leadership, and the Founder of North Carolina Teachers United. The son of two NYC educators, he began a career in education as a middle school science teacher after relocating from New York in 2012. Bishay eventually pursued a second master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Gardner-Webb University, graduating in 2018. A lifelong learner, he is a current student at NC A&T State University, in the PhD of Ed. Leadership program. Bishay is a firm believer in fair compensation for educators, racial equity, increased funding for public schools, and the right of public employees to collectively bargain. 

Melissa Marie Easley is a middle school Science and Social Studies Teacher for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System. She began teaching in the suburbs of Chicago in 2006 and relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2011. In 2018, she received her master’s degree in Technology in Education from Walden University and became a National Board Certified Teacher. As a veteran teacher, Melissa believes strongly in advocating for educators and students in North Carolina. She has spoken at Town Hall events, School Board meetings, County Commissioner Meetings, and various community forums, encouraging others to prioritize education in Mecklenburg County and around North Carolina. She is a proud member of CMAE/NCAE and continue to play an active role throughout the organization. Melissa and her husband Jeff are the proud parents of their two children Alexandra and Dominic.

 Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela. After reading this quote, Kristy knew becoming an educator was her destiny. For this purpose, in 2012, she relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina from Long Island, New York. Since then, she has served as an elementary and middle school classroom teacher and is currently a STEM Learning Leader within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District. In 2017, she achieved her Master’s in Executive Leadership Studies and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Leadership Studies to influence positive change and fight for the betterment of public education in North Carolina.