Butler College Prep

Melvin Richardson is a forensic science teacher at Butler College Prep, now entering his 13th year of teaching high school, where he also serves as the assistant coach for both varsity girls and boys volleyball, NHS advisor and senior advisor. Mr. Richardson began his teaching career in New Orleans, Louisiana working with underserved students in both rural and urban communities before moving to Chicago to continue his work in education. His approach to education is transformative, rooted in culturally responsive teaching and a belief in student-driven inquiry. He creates space for students to explore forensic science—especially the complex topics of death, evidence, and justice—through a new lens that connects science to the real world and their lived experiences. Through rigorous instruction, meaningful relationships, and high expectations, Mr. Richardson empowers students to think critically, question deeply, and discover their own potential.