Melanie T. Poole
Monroe,GA
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
Regional Director
GA Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
05.2006 - 05.2014
- Led regional initiatives to enhance vocational rehabilitation services and improve client outcomes.
- Developed strategic partnerships with community organizations to expand service reach and resource availability.
- Oversaw program implementation, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations for vocational rehabilitation.
- Mentored staff on best practices in case management and service delivery, fostering professional development.
Unit Manager
Division of Rehabilitation Services
09.1995 - 05.2006
- Led rehabilitation program development to enhance service delivery and client outcomes.
- Managed cross-functional teams to streamline operations and improve efficiency in service provision.
- Oversaw budget allocations, ensuring resource optimization for program effectiveness.
- Developed training modules for staff, enhancing skill sets and improving team performance.
- Implemented quality assurance protocols to maintain compliance with regulatory standards.
- Fostered partnerships with community organizations to expand service reach and accessibility.
SR Rehabilitation Counselor
GA Division of Rehabilitation Services
03.1987 - 09.1995
- Developed individualized rehabilitation plans to support clients in achieving employment goals.
- Facilitated vocational assessments to identify client skills and job readiness.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate comprehensive service delivery for clients.
- Provided counseling and guidance to clients navigating rehabilitation and employment challenges.
- Monitored client progress and adjusted rehabilitation strategies as necessary for optimal outcomes.
Vocational Evaluator
Georgia Division of Rehabilitation Services
11.1985 - 03.1987
- Conducted comprehensive vocational assessments to determine clients' skills and employment potential.
- Developed customized rehabilitation plans aligning client abilities with market opportunities.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to enhance service delivery and client outcomes.
- Implemented evidence-based strategies to improve vocational training programs and services.
- Analyzed labor market trends to inform program development and resource allocation decisions.
Unit Manager
Mississippi Department Of Rehabilitation Services
12.1984 - 08.1985
- Evaluated employee performance regularly for professional growth opportunities, accountability measures, and feedback-driven improvement strategies.
- Ensured compliance with regulations and standards through regular audits, staff education, and policy updates.
- Analyzed program metrics to identify areas for improvement and drive strategic initiatives.
Rehabilitation Counselor I, II, and III
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
08.1978 - 12.1984
- Developed individualized rehabilitation plans tailored to clients' needs and goals.
- Facilitated group counseling sessions to promote peer support and skill development.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive client care and service integration.
- Provided guidance on job readiness skills, including resume writing and interview techniques.
- Monitored client progress, adjusting strategies based on evolving needs and outcomes.
Classroom Teacher
Vicksburg Warren School District
09.1975 - 08.1978
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to foster student learning and participation.
- Utilized various assessment tools to evaluate student progress and adapt instructional strategies accordingly.
- Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on classroom management and effective teaching practices.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that enhance critical thinking skills.
- Organized parent-teacher conferences to communicate student achievements and address concerns effectively.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education/English
Mississippi University For Women
Columbus, MSRehabilitation Counseling
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KYSkills
- Client relationships
- Staff training and development
- Staff management
- Meetings and presentations
- Employee recruitment
- Staff oversight
Affiliations
- National Rehabilitation Association
- National Association of Rehabilitation Leadership
- Rehabilitation Counseling and Educators Association
Timeline
Regional Director
GA Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
05.2006 - 05.2014
Unit Manager
Division of Rehabilitation Services
09.1995 - 05.2006
SR Rehabilitation Counselor
GA Division of Rehabilitation Services
03.1987 - 09.1995
Vocational Evaluator
Georgia Division of Rehabilitation Services
11.1985 - 03.1987
Unit Manager
Mississippi Department Of Rehabilitation Services
12.1984 - 08.1985
Rehabilitation Counselor I, II, and III
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
08.1978 - 12.1984
Classroom Teacher
Vicksburg Warren School District
09.1975 - 08.1978
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education/English
Mississippi University For Women
Rehabilitation Counseling
University of Kentucky