Melanie Falls
Lexington,VA
Summary
Educational leader with 29 years of experience spanning classroom instruction, building leadership, division administration, higher education, assessment, accountability, and continuous improvement. Expertise in Classical Test Theory, Improvement Science, educational measurement, strategic planning, and organizational change. Recognized for translating complex assessment and accountability data into actionable strategies that improve teaching, learning, and student outcomes. Proven record of leading school improvement efforts, developing system-wide supports, and building organizational capacity through collaboration, professional learning, and evidence-based decision making.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Testing and Instructional Data
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2020 - Current
- Developed and strengthened a division-wide culture of data-informed decision making by helping teachers, principals, and division leaders use student performance evidence to guide instructional, intervention, and organizational decisions.
- Directed the administration, security, reporting, and analysis of local, state, and federal assessment programs, ensuring compliance with Virginia Department of Education and federal accountability requirements.
- Provided assessment and accountability leadership to principals and central office administrators through the interpretation and communication of complex student performance data.
- Led implementation of Branching Minds as the division's early warning and intervention platform, expanding the division's capacity to identify and support students experiencing academic and behavioral challenges.
- Designed and facilitated professional learning in assessment literacy, data analysis, progress monitoring, performance-based assessment, and evidence-based instructional decision making.
- Conducted a division-level evaluation of Branching Minds as an early warning system, applying principles of Classical Test Theory and educational measurement to examine the relationship between student tiering and Standards of Learning outcomes.
- Strengthened organizational capacity for continuous improvement through the application of Improvement Science, root-cause analysis, and evidence-based planning processes.
- Collaborated with curriculum, special education, federal programs, and school leadership teams to align assessment, accountability, intervention, and instructional improvement efforts across the division.
- Developed data analysis protocols and reporting structures that transformed student performance information into actionable evidence for school improvement planning and instructional decision making.
- Supported federal monitoring, accreditation, and accountability processes through accurate reporting, program evaluation, and compliance oversight.
- Served as an advisor to division leadership on matters related to assessment, accountability, educational measurement, school improvement, and strategic planning.
- Co-facilitated the division's Teacher Advisory Committee (TAC), creating a collaborative structure for teacher voice, feedback, and shared leadership in support of instructional improvement and organizational effectiveness.
Supervisor of Attendance, Truancy, and Student Services
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2016 - 06.2020
- Directed division-wide attendance, truancy, homebound instruction, and student support services to improve student access, engagement, and academic success.
- Coordinated Section 504 processes and collaborated with school-based teams to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities and supports for students.
- Developed systems for identifying and monitoring at-risk students, strengthening collaboration among teachers, counselors, administrators, and families.
- Collaborated with school administrators, court personnel, social services agencies, and community organizations to address barriers affecting student attendance, engagement, and achievement.
- Coordinated homebound educational services to ensure continuity of instruction for students experiencing extended absences.
- Served as School Test Coordinator for both Maury River Middle School and Rockbridge County High School, overseeing test administration, security procedures, accommodations, and compliance with state testing requirements.
- Coordinated benchmark assessment and performance-based assessment initiatives to support instructional planning and student achievement.
- Provided leadership in the interpretation and communication of student performance data to school leaders, teachers, and division administrators.
- Strengthened division capacity for data-informed decision making through the development of reporting processes, data review protocols, and collaborative problem-solving structures.
- Served as a liaison among schools, families, community agencies, and the juvenile justice system to support student success and promote positive educational outcomes.
Principal, Natural Bridge Elementary School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2010 - 06.2016
- Led Natural Bridge Elementary School through comprehensive school improvement efforts following designation as a Federal Focus School, establishing a shared commitment to improving outcomes for all students.
- Developed and implemented a systematic approach to data-informed decision making that empowered teachers to use student performance evidence to guide instructional planning, intervention selection, and progress monitoring.
- Established Professional Learning Communities that shifted faculty collaboration toward the analysis of student learning, instructional effectiveness, and continuous improvement.
- Redesigned faculty meetings into professional learning opportunities focused on curriculum, instruction, assessment, and evidence-based practices.
- Implemented high-impact instructional strategies and strengthened alignment among curriculum, instruction, and assessment to improve student achievement.
- Organized school schedules and instructional structures to maximize instructional time and reduce disruptions to learning.
- Supported teacher growth through ongoing classroom observations, coaching conversations, and professional learning opportunities.
- Fostered a culture of collaboration, shared leadership, and collective responsibility for student success.
- Strengthened relationships among staff, families, and the community to support student achievement and school improvement goals.
- Managed school operations, personnel, budgeting, and instructional programs while maintaining a safe, positive, and student-centered learning environment.
Principal, Effinger Elementary School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2006 - 06.2010
- Led a PK–5 elementary school serving approximately 120 students while maintaining a strong focus on student learning, school culture, and instructional effectiveness.
- Led Effinger Elementary School through a multi-million-dollar renovation project, ensuring continuity of instruction, maintaining school operations, and supporting students, staff, and families throughout the transition.
- Coordinated the dedication of the renovated school facility, strengthening relationships among students, families, staff, alumni, and the broader community.
- Developed and implemented literacy improvement initiatives focused on increasing student achievement and strengthening instructional practices.
- Partnered with the University of Virginia's PALS Office to provide professional learning that strengthened teachers' use of literacy assessment data to inform instruction.
- Led professional development in word study and literacy instruction, supporting teachers in the implementation of research-based reading practices.
- Fostered a collaborative school culture focused on continuous improvement, professional growth, and student success.
- Supported teachers in the use of student performance evidence to guide instructional planning and intervention decisions.
- Managed school operations, budgeting, personnel, and instructional programs while maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment.
- Successfully guided staff, students, and families through the closure of Effinger Elementary School due to division budgetary constraints while maintaining organizational stability and a focus on student needs.
Assistant Principal - Rockbridge County High School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2004 - 06.2006
- Served as administrator for Grades 9 and 10, providing leadership for student discipline, student support services, and parent communication.
- Supervised the History and Social Science Department, supporting curriculum implementation, instructional improvement, teacher evaluation, and professional growth.
- Served as School Test Coordinator, overseeing the administration, security, and compliance of state and local assessment programs.
- Coordinated textbook adoption, inventory management, and instructional resource allocation to support effective teaching and learning.
- Conducted classroom observations and teacher evaluations, providing feedback and support to strengthen instructional practices.
- Collaborated with teachers and counselors to support successful transitions for students entering and progressing through high school.
- Participated in school improvement efforts focused on student achievement, instructional effectiveness, and organizational performance.
- Supported daily school operations, scheduling, safety planning, extracurricular activities, and student events.
- Built positive relationships with students, families, staff, and community members through active participation in school programs, athletic events, and extracurricular activities.
- Contributed to a positive school culture by balancing high expectations for student behavior with a commitment to student success and support.
Assistant Principal - Maury River Middle School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2003 - 06.2004
- Served as a member of the administrative team responsible for the daily operation of a middle school serving students in Grades 6–8.
- Led student discipline and behavioral support efforts, working collaboratively with students, families, teachers, and counselors to promote a positive learning environment.
- Supervised, observed, and evaluated certified and classified staff, providing feedback and support to strengthen instructional effectiveness and professional growth.
- Participated in the recruitment, interviewing, and selection of teachers and instructional support personnel.
- Coordinated the development of the master schedule to maximize instructional opportunities and efficiently utilize staffing resources.
- Collaborated with teachers and school leaders to address student academic and behavioral needs through data-informed problem solving and intervention planning.
- Supported school improvement initiatives focused on student achievement, school climate, and instructional effectiveness.
- Developed strong partnerships with families and community stakeholders to support student success and strengthen school-home communication.
- Assisted with school safety planning, student activities, extracurricular programs, and daily operational management.
- Contributed to a collaborative culture focused on high expectations, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Teacher - Social Studies Department Rockbridge County High School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.1998 - 06.2003
- Taught World History I, World History II, Sociology, and United States Government to students in Grades 9–12.
- Collaborated with World History I and World History II colleagues to develop common curriculum plans, instructional materials, assessments, and pacing guides that ensured consistency and rigor across classrooms.
- Served as a leader in the Freshman Transition Program, supporting students as they successfully adjusted to the academic and social expectations of high school.
- Participated in the High Schools That Work initiative, collaborating with colleagues to strengthen the integration of rigorous academic instruction, career and technical education, and workplace readiness skills.
- Contributed to the school's self-study process through collaborative planning, program evaluation, and continuous improvement efforts.
- Developed engaging learning experiences that promoted critical thinking, historical analysis, civic responsibility, and student achievement.
- Built positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues that fostered a supportive learning environment and contributed to student success.
Education
Doctor of Education - Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA, USA2019
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA, USA05-2003
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science and Education
Mary Baldwin College
Staunton, VA, USA05-1996
Skills
Strategic Planning
Facilitates the development and implementation of long-range organizational plans that align resources, priorities, and initiatives to improve student outcomes and organizational effectiveness
Improvement Science
Applies continuous improvement methodologies, including root cause analysis and Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles, to identify problems, test solutions, and strengthen educational systems
Classical Test Theory
Utilizes principles of educational measurement and assessment to evaluate test quality, interpret assessment results, and support sound instructional and accountability decisions
Assessment and Accountability Systems
Leads the design, implementation, administration, and evaluation of local, state, and federal assessment programs while ensuring compliance with accountability requirements
Educational Measurement
Analyzes and interprets student performance data to evaluate program effectiveness, monitor progress, and inform decision making at the classroom, school, and division levels
Data Analysis and Decision Making
Transforms complex data into actionable information that supports instructional planning, school improvement efforts, resource allocation, and strategic initiatives
School Improvement Leadership
Develops and leads comprehensive improvement efforts that strengthen teaching, learning, organizational effectiveness, and student achievement
Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
Promotes alignment among curriculum, instructional practices, and assessment systems to improve student learning and instructional effectiveness
Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)
Facilitates the development and implementation of integrated academic and behavioral support systems that address the needs of all learners
Professional Learning and Leadership Development
Designs and delivers professional learning experiences that build educator capacity, strengthen leadership, and support continuous improvement
Program Evaluation
Uses qualitative and quantitative evidence to assess program effectiveness, determine impact, and guide future planning and decision making
Organizational Change Management
Leads individuals and organizations through complex change processes while maintaining focus on mission, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Accomplishments
Data-Informed Decision Making and Continuous Improvement
- Developed systems that empowered teachers, principals, and division leaders to use student performance data to make informed instructional decisions and improve student outcomes.
- Established Professional Learning Communities, data teams, and intervention planning processes that transformed data from a compliance activity into a tool for improving teaching and learning.
- Designed and facilitated professional learning that strengthened educators' ability to analyze assessment results, identify student needs, monitor progress, and select appropriate instructional responses.
- Applied principles of Classical Test Theory, educational measurement, and Improvement Science to support evidence-based decision making at the classroom, school, and division levels.
- Directed the administration, analysis, and reporting of local, state, and federal assessment programs while ensuring compliance with accountability requirements.
- Provided assessment and accountability analyses to principals and division leaders to support strategic planning and continuous improvement.
- Developed systems and processes that increased educator access to meaningful student performance data.
- Led Natural Bridge Elementary School through comprehensive improvement efforts following designation as a Federal Focus School.
- Led Effinger Elementary School through a multi-million-dollar renovation project, ensuring continuity of instruction, maintaining school operations, and supporting students, staff, and families throughout the transition.
- Coordinated the dedication of the renovated Effinger Elementary School facility to students, families, and the broader community.
- Successfully guided staff, students, and families through the closure of Effinger Elementary School due to division budgetary constraints while maintaining organizational stability and a focus on student success.
- Designed and facilitated professional learning in assessment literacy, data analysis, progress monitoring, instructional decision making, performance-based assessment, and school improvement practices.
- Served as an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Virginia since 2019, preparing graduate students to apply assessment principles and evidence-based decision making to improve teaching and learning.
- Developed the capacity of educators and school leaders to use evidence to inform instructional, intervention, and organizational decisions.
- Conducted doctoral research examining teacher data-analysis procedures and the use of student performance evidence to improve literacy instruction.
- Applied expertise in Classical Test Theory, educational measurement, program evaluation, and Improvement Science to strengthen organizational effectiveness and student achievement.
- Bridged educational research and practice by translating complex assessment and accountability information into actionable strategies for educators and school leaders.
Affiliations
Available upon request
Certification
- Virginia Postgraduate Professional License # PGP0600249
- Division Superintendent's License
- Endorsed in History and Social Science K - 12
- Endorsed in Administration and Supervision PK - 12
Timeline
Director of Testing and Instructional Data
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2020 - Current
Supervisor of Attendance, Truancy, and Student Services
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2016 - 06.2020
Principal, Natural Bridge Elementary School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2010 - 06.2016
Principal, Effinger Elementary School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2006 - 06.2010
Assistant Principal - Rockbridge County High School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2004 - 06.2006
Assistant Principal - Maury River Middle School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.2003 - 06.2004
Teacher - Social Studies Department Rockbridge County High School
Rockbridge County Public Schools
07.1998 - 06.2003
Doctor of Education - Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education
University of Virginia
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction
University of Virginia
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science and Education
Mary Baldwin College