MELISSA SPEARS
Harrisonburg
Summary
Seasoned Facilitator with a background in diverse group dynamics and effective communication. Strengths include active listening, problem-solving, and adaptability to meet the needs of individuals and groups. Experienced in developing, implementing, and maintaining behavior intervention plans and processes, as well as facilitating restorative practices that promote accountability and positive relationships. Proven ability to design and deliver meaningful staff professional development, support team growth, and enhance overall group productivity. Passionate about fostering strong collaboration among students, staff, and families to maximize growth and create supportive, high-performing learning environments.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Restorative Practices Facilitator
Harrisonburg City Public Schools
Harrisonburg
06.2023 - Current
- Organized and facilitated restorative mediations for parents, teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders to best support all involved.
- Mediated conflicts between families and school staff to promote positive relationships and resolution.
- Facilitated training sessions for staff on best practices in educational facilitation to improve teaching effectiveness.
- Collaborated with teachers to implement effective usage of Universal Classroom Practices.
- Coordinated school events and activities to enhance community involvement and support.
504 Case Manager
Harrisonburg City Public Schools
Harrisonburg
08.2024 - 06.2025
- Coordinated 504 education plans, ensuring alignment with individual student needs and goals.
- Facilitated effective communication between families and school personnel, enhancing support for student success.
- Provided resources and referrals to community support services, connecting families with critical assistance.
- Documented case notes to maintain accurate student records.
3rd Grade Elementary Teacher
Harrisonburg City Public Schools
Harrisonburg
08.2021 - 06.2023
- Communicated with parents using email, phone, or video conference for discussion of grades and disciplinary issues.
- Conferred with parents or guardians, teachers, counselors, and administrators to resolve students' behavioral and academic problems.
- Diversified teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
Elementary School Teacher- Grade 2
Waynesboro City Public Schools
Waynesboro
05.2019 - 06.2021
- Instruct students individually and in groups, using various teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, and demonstrations.
- Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
- Confer with parents or guardians, teachers, counselors, and administrators to resolve students' behavioral and academic problems.
Elementary School Teacher- Grade 3
Waynesboro City Public Schools
Waynesboro
05.2016 - 05.2019
- Prepare students for later grades by encouraging them to explore learning opportunities and to persevere with challenging tasks.
- Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.
- Meet with parents and guardians to discuss their children's progress and to determine priorities for their children and their resource needs.
Grade School Teacher
Good Shepherd Grade School
Waynesboro
05.2014 - 05.2016
- Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
- Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.
- Prepare and implement remedial programs for students requiring extra help.
Education
Graduate Certificate - Restorative Justice
Eastern Mennonite Uiversity
Harrisonburg, VA05-2025
Bachelor Of Science (B.S.) - Educational Studies, English, and History
Ferrum College
Ferrum, VA12-2013
Independent Studies - Education
UVA Wise
Wise, VASkills
- Facilitating Restorative Processes
- Behavior Intervention and data analysis
- Experience with MTSS and MCIE
- 504 plan coordination
- District Wide Professional Development Facilitator
- Cares Team representative
- Case documentation
- Parent communication
- Advocacy
- Feedback delivery
- Staff, Student, and Family Relationship-Building
Certification
Licensed Elementary School Teacher K-3
References
References available upon request
Timeline
504 Case Manager
Harrisonburg City Public Schools
08.2024 - 06.2025
Restorative Practices Facilitator
Harrisonburg City Public Schools
06.2023 - Current
3rd Grade Elementary Teacher
Harrisonburg City Public Schools
08.2021 - 06.2023
Elementary School Teacher- Grade 2
Waynesboro City Public Schools
05.2019 - 06.2021
Elementary School Teacher- Grade 3
Waynesboro City Public Schools
05.2016 - 05.2019
Grade School Teacher
Good Shepherd Grade School
05.2014 - 05.2016
Graduate Certificate - Restorative Justice
Eastern Mennonite Uiversity
Bachelor Of Science (B.S.) - Educational Studies, English, and History
Ferrum College
Independent Studies - Education
UVA Wise