Evelyn Schmelling

Resource Specialist

Ms. Evelyn has been a dedicated Education Specialist at Yuba River Charter School for one year, supporting students in the Learning Center and classrooms. With a Single Subject English Teaching Credential and currently pursuing her Extensive Support Needs Special Education Credential, she is passionate about helping students access their genius in multidimensional ways. Her journey into education has been one of synchronicity—teaching has always been in her heart. In her twenties, she worked in various schools in Sacramento, but it was a friend’s job posting that led her back into teaching at YRCS, where she has truly found her home. What she loves most about working at YRCS is the earnest and intentional nature of interactions with staff and students, as well as the engaging lesson plans she gets to support. And, of course, the daily fashion show—a reflection of the creativity and individuality present in the school community.

Ms. Evelyn believes in trusting oneself and embracing the value of differences, seeing them as essential to life. She approaches each day with a deep appreciation for individuality and strives to make a difference by helping students unlock their potential in a way that honors who they are. Her favorite part of the day at YRCS is Main Lesson time, when learning comes alive in the classroom.

A Sacramento native, Ms. Evelyn is a writer and artist who has published multiple books. She also types on-the-spot poems on her typewriter, bringing a unique creative touch to her craft. She loves road-tripping around California with her daughter, eating fancy snacks by the water, and dancing and singing whenever possible. She considers herself an anti-social extrovert—a balance of loving connection and cherishing solitude. Her favorite childhood book was Matilda by Roald Dahl, and she carries with her the words of Mary Oliver: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” If she could have lunch with anyone, it would be Kurt Vonnegut. She admires his humor, humanist perspective, and kindness, and imagines they would spend the afternoon laughing and talking about life—perhaps even by his pool, as he was known to invite people over for a swim. Ms. Evelyn is grateful for the energy and heart that go into making YRCS a vibrant learning space and is honored to be part of the community.