Melissa Jackson Schmidt
Jenkintown
Summary
Accomplished Middle School Math Educator with 15 years of experience driving student achievement. Expertise in restorative practices and culturally responsive teaching fosters high-expectation, student-centered classrooms. Experienced in curriculum development, classroom management, and student engagement techniques. Strong communicator and problem-solver dedicated to creating educational environments where students excel.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
7th & 8th Grade Math Teacher
School District of Philadelphia
Philadelphia
12.2023 - Current
- Delivered standards-aligned math instruction, closing foundational skill gaps and accelerating grade-level proficiency
- Developed rigorous lessons incorporating real-world problem solving and multiple entry points for diverse learners
- Use data from assessments to design targeted small group instruction and interventions for struggling learners
- Built structured, engaging classroom environment using restorative practices to support student behavior and accountability
- Collaborate with grade-level teams to align instruction, share best practices, and improve student outcomes
Director of Workforce Development
YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School
Philadelphia
01.2019 - 09.2022
- Developed training programs for at-risk youth, enhancing employability skills and readiness for the job market.
- Partnered with community organizations to increase job placement opportunities for program participants.
- Analyzed labor market trends to align training with industry needs.
- Lead instructional programming aligned to industry standards, ensuring students build strong academic and real-world problem-solving skills
- Designed project-based learning experiences that increased student engagement and skill mastery
- Developed intervention pathways supporting measurable growth for students performing below grade level
- Coach and supervise teachers through observations, feedback cycles, and targeted support to improve instructional quality
- Partner with leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and post-secondary readiness goals
- Planned and led staff development training programs, focusing on employee knowledge, engagement, and performance improvement.
Information Technology/Business & Administration Manager
YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School
Philadelphia
01.2012 - 01.2019
- Designed and implemented curriculum integrating math and business with real-world applications to enhance student learning
- Led professional development on instructional strategies and differentiation to improve student engagement
- Coached new teachers, including math instructors, to enhance instructional quality and classroom management
- Supported school improvement planning through data analysis and performance tracking
Mathematics Teacher
YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School
Philadelphia
01.2004 - 01.2012
- Taught Algebra, Geometry, Consumer Math, and foundational math courses to diverse learners
- Enhanced student engagement through integration of technology, cooperative learning, and differentiated instruction
- Co-created Saturday School intervention program that boosted math proficiency among participating students
- Mentored students and led academic clubs, fostering confidence and improving academic achievement
Math Teacher
School District of Philadelphia
Philadelphia
01.2000 - 01.2004
- Taught algebra, geometry, and precalculus to grades 9 through 12.
- Established classroom culture emphasizing high expectations, leading to increased student engagement and achievement.
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Facilitated classroom discussions that enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.
- Organized extra help sessions to support struggling students, resulting in improved understanding of math concepts.
Education
M.S. - Organizational Leadership and Management
Peirce College
Philadelphia, PASecondary Education Studies -
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PAB.S. - Computer Science
Chestnut Hill College
Philadelphia, PASkills
- Middle school math instruction
- Data-driven instruction
- Curriculum design
- Assessment and progress monitoring
- Student engagement and differentiation
- Culturally responsive teaching
- Responsive teaching
- Mathematical problem solving
Honors And Affiliations
- Teacher of the Year, House of Representatives
- Women in Leadership Award, Peirce College
- Instructional Design Certificate
- Member, Association of Career and Technical Education
- Board Member, Human Relations Commission of Jenkintown
- Member, National Coalition of 100 Black Women
- Member, National Council of Negro Women
Leadership Highlights
- Restorative Practices Trainer, building positive and inclusive classroom communities
- Experienced in coaching teachers and leading instructional improvement
- Designed programs expanding access for special education students
- Led initiatives increasing student engagement and real-world application of math
Timeline
7th & 8th Grade Math Teacher
School District of Philadelphia
12.2023 - Current
Director of Workforce Development
YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School
01.2019 - 09.2022
Information Technology/Business & Administration Manager
YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School
01.2012 - 01.2019
Mathematics Teacher
YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School
01.2004 - 01.2012
Math Teacher
School District of Philadelphia
01.2000 - 01.2004
M.S. - Organizational Leadership and Management
Peirce College
Secondary Education Studies -
Drexel University
B.S. - Computer Science
Chestnut Hill College