Honoring Melville Krebs: Johnson Tutoring Program Pioneer

I think that we’re just at the beginning of what we can do in this neighborhood. I think that we’ve just barely scratched the surface of what we can be to families over time. I hope that the Center succeeds- it could be a real gift to this whole community and can change lives.

Melville Krebs is one of the leading ladies of Abundant Life’s Johnson Elementary Tutoring Program, having been involved for over 20 years. As a trained Reading Specialist, she has graced the tutoring program with her knowledge as well as her love for the LORD and early childhood education. Krebs’ heart for the community has been evident over the years as she wrote lesson plans for students and worked alongside volunteers and tutoring coordinator on how to best serve each student. 

Melville Krebs first heard of Abundant Life 27 years ago whilst sitting in church at Christ Episcopal Church, when the ministry was looking for volunteers.

It feels like the job was just handed to me in Church; it seems like everything that I’ve ventured out on has started at Christ Church.

She started volunteering at the Abundant Life Center in then-Blue Ridge Commons Apartment Complex before the program was moved into the school. It came to the attention of the then-Executive Director that Krebs was a trained Reading Specialist. 

I really enjoyed working with the early learners. I already had the training, and it was a wonderful place to put that training to work in the real world. It has been an absolute pleasure.

“I will miss her.” Emily, Johnson Tutoring Participant

From there, she was hired on staff for three years to write lesson plans under a federal grant. She began writing plans along with Judy Ely and Carol Phillips, and has continued doing so over the years as a volunteer when she rolled off staff. 

“Every time I would fall down, she would help me. She would always cheer me up.” KJ, Johnson Tutoring Participant

Abundant Life’s Lesson Plan model is unique to the organization in that lesson planners create personalized learning support for each student based on their needs. This includes collaboration with the schools to have and receive access to test scores and progress assessments. This model has been tested over the years and allows tutoring participants to gain confidence and the boost that they need to succeed in and outside of the classroom.

My absolute belief is that early intervention with young readers can make a huge difference in their lives. The impact that I’ve seen over the years is the progress that they make. It is proven by the fact that the teachers see a difference in the kids who come to tutoring.

“She helped me get better at school.” William, Johnson Tutoring Participant

Melville Krebs, over the years has been a faithful friend of Abundant Life Ministries and her love has left a lasting impression on the ministry. 

“It has been my pleasure to work alongside Mrs. Melville for the past three years. Her wisdom has laid the foundation for such a successful and impactful tutoring program. She is a great example of working heartily as unto the LORD. I am honored to be able to follow in her footsteps- she has left big shoes to fill. She has poured into the lives of many, and she will be greatly missed.” Calvin Kellum, Elementary School Program Coordinator

“I love her.” Evelyn, Johnson Tutoring Participant

I think one of my favorite things is to have a room full of tutors and children, who don’t even know that I’m there, that are just so focused in on each other and engaged and smiling. My other favorite thing is when a first grader realizes that they can read.

Thank you, Melville, for every life and heart that you have touched with your grace. Thank you for the legacy that you have left, which is the foundation on which the Johnson Tutoring Program stands. 

“She was the best for over 20 years. She was a great tutor.” Joaquin, Johnson Tutoring Participant