Melissa Dunne
Philadelphia
Summary
Dynamic education leader with extensive experience at the School District of Philadelphia, adept in crisis management and strategic planning. Successfully implemented school-wide programs enhancing student engagement and safety, while fostering strong relationships among staff and students. Proven track record in staff development and mentoring, driving academic success for diverse learners.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Climate and Safety
School District of Philadelphia
08.2019 - Current
- Formulated and implemented school safety and security policies.
- Verified student grades, attendance and schedules.
- Coordinated staff and student activities to promote a safe and productive learning environment.
- Maintained school focus on learning by enforcing rules related to academics, student discipline and class attendance.
- Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
- Monitored student progress and implemented intervention strategies to support student success.
- Conferred and resolved education-related issues and problems with students, parents and school officials.
- Created and implemented a School Wide PBIS program.
- Created and implemented a school wide SEL advisory program.
- Monitor and address student attendance.
- Trained students and staff in Restorative Practices.
Special Education Liaison
School District of Philadelphia
08.2016 - 06.2019
- Supported general education teachers and administrators in implementing strategies to meet needs of students with IEPs.
- Interpreted and analyzed academic data to maintain student development and retention.
- Led and managed Special Education Department of 30 teachers, over 30 para professionals and 350 students to support students academically and socially.
- Maintained contact with parents to address concerns and needs of children.
- Mentored new teachers on student progress monitoring and legal document preparation.
- Monitored student performance to evaluate effectiveness of instructional strategies.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
- Developed Individual Education Plans for students with special needs.
- Provided professional development training to educate faculty and staff on laws and regulations governing special education.
- Worked closely with parents and guardians to address students' issues on multiple fronts.
- Helped students with special needs integrate into general classroom environments by advocating for individual requirements and helping teachers solve problems.
- Coordinated regular meetings to share and analyze student performance data and success plans with colleagues and parents.
Special Education Teacher
School District of Philadelphia
10.2007 - 06.2016
- Cultivated connections and strong student rapport to foster classroom engagement, in addition to recording student progress to inform parents and school administration.
- Modified general education curriculum for special-needs students using various instructional techniques and technologies.
- Developed Individual Education Plans for students with special needs.
- Provided professional development training to educate faculty and staff on laws and regulations governing special education.
- Mentored new teachers on student progress monitoring and legal document preparation.
- Monitored student performance to evaluate effectiveness of instructional strategies.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress and attendance.
- Conducted assessments of students to determine individual needs.
- Facilitated small group instruction to address individual learning needs.
- Developed and implemented behavior management plans to improve student behavior.
- Led and managed Special Education department of 20 teachers and 250 students.
- Implemented program-level departmental policies and procedures to support educational program and curriculum.
- Planned and implemented staff development and in-service training programs to enhance knowledge and skills.
- Evaluated programs and monitored implementation and compliance with regulations to achieve objectives.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary And Special Education
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PAMaster of Arts - Special Education
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PASkills
- Facilities management
- Staff management
- Crisis management
- Strategies and goals
- Strategic planning
- Conflict resolution
- Relationship building
- Decision-making
- Rules and regulations
- Multitasking and organization
- Coaching and mentoring
- Problem-solving
- Creativity and innovation
- Time management
- Operations management
- Staff development
Certification
- PA Certified Elementary Education, K-6
- PA Certified Special Education, birth-21
- PA Certified Secondary English, 9-12
- PDE Autism Endorsement
Timeline
Director of Climate and Safety
School District of Philadelphia
08.2019 - Current
Special Education Liaison
School District of Philadelphia
08.2016 - 06.2019
Special Education Teacher
School District of Philadelphia
10.2007 - 06.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Elementary And Special Education
Holy Family University
Master of Arts - Special Education
Holy Family University
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