Melissa began her career with a dual degree in elementary
and exceptional education, teaching first and third grade. She
went on to earn a master’s degree in learning disabilities and
later worked as a learning consultant, partnering with children,
families, and teachers to provide targeted strategies in
reading and math. She also gained valuable experience
teaching in specialized learning environments designed to
support learners on the autism spectrum, where she provided
small-group instruction tailored to each child’s strengths and
needs.

Melissa is passionate about designing research-based
lessons that help children understand how their amazing
brains work. She loves creating inquiry-based workshops that
encourage learners to ask questions, think critically, and
explore big ideas. Storybooks are one of her favorite tools,
carefully chosen to spark imagination, open conversations,
and inspire a lifelong love of learning.

Outside of school, Melissa enjoys life in Miami Beach with her
husband Denny, their daughter Sam, and their son Marcus.
When she’s not teaching, she can be found making pottery,
painting, traveling, or spending time with their pets Moji the
Cairn Terrier, Donnie the kitten, and two parakeets, Blue and
Bento.