Melissa Turner
Fort Collins,CO
Summary
Compassionate educator with extensive experience in special education, especially with dyslexia. Known for effective parent communication and individualized learning strategies, dedicated to creating inclusive classrooms that support diverse learners.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Special Education Teacher
Poudre School District
Fort Collins, Colorado
08.2006 - Current
- Developed individualized education plans for diverse student needs.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate student learning and adjust teaching methods.
- Created a safe environment conducive to learning for special education students.
- Conducted assessments of student performance and provided feedback to parents.
- Conducted small group and individual classroom activities with students based on differentiated learning needs.
- Facilitated training sessions for paraprofessionals and interns.
- Adapted instructional materials for students with varying abilities.
- Created a positive classroom environment that promotes inclusion and respect.
Special Education Teacher
Managed Adolescent Care Day Treatment Facility
Fort Collins, Colorado
07.2001 - 07.2006
- Implemented behavior management techniques to promote positive classroom environments.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams to support comprehensive student services.
- Provided instruction in academic, communication, and social skills to special education students.
- Conducted assessments to monitor student progress and learning gaps.
- Established positive relationships with students and their families.
- Coordinated with specialists to integrate therapeutic services into lessons.
- Encouraged student empathy of others to build confidence and improve self-image.
- Collaborated with outside agencies providing services for students and families to deliver cohesive support.
- Organized field trips or community experiences to enhance learning opportunities for special education students.
- Supported diverse student populations through equitable instructional design and programming.
Education
Graduate Certificate-Dyslexia - Special Education
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida, FL08-2025
Master Of Arts (MA) - Special Education: Severe Affective
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO05-2006
Bachelor Of Arts (BA) - Elementary Education
University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY05-1994
Skills
- Individualized education plans
- Special education
- Dyslexia
- Disability assessment testing
- Assistive technology
- Small group instruction
- Assessment administration
- Parent communication
- Relationship building
- Curriculum development
- Paraprofessional oversight
Accomplishments
Nominated for the Mary Hull Special Education Teacher Award, April 2018
Certification
Colorado Professional Teaching License, exp. 4/2032
Endorsements: Elementary Education (Grades K-6); Special Education II - Severe Needs - Affective (5-21); Special Education Generalist (Ages 5-21)
Designations: READ Act - Teacher; English Learner Professional Development
UFLI Certificate, 8/2025
Orton-Gillingham Comprehensive/Advanced Certificate, 2/2015, 3/2017
Endorsements: Elementary Education (Grades K-6); Special Education II - Severe Needs - Affective (5-21); Special Education Generalist (Ages 5-21)
Designations: READ Act - Teacher; English Learner Professional Development
UFLI Certificate, 8/2025
Orton-Gillingham Comprehensive/Advanced Certificate, 2/2015, 3/2017
Timeline
Special Education Teacher
Poudre School District
08.2006 - Current
Special Education Teacher
Managed Adolescent Care Day Treatment Facility
07.2001 - 07.2006
Graduate Certificate-Dyslexia - Special Education
University of Florida
Master Of Arts (MA) - Special Education: Severe Affective
University of Northern Colorado
Bachelor Of Arts (BA) - Elementary Education
University of Wyoming