Melissa Waller
Overland Park,KS
Summary
Passionate and experienced elementary school teacher with over 14 years of demonstrated success in the classroom by enhancing student engagement and academic performance in both rural and urban settings. Skilled in implementing inclusive learning environments tailored to diverse students and their needs. Developed and designed strategic lesson plans. Commended for improving student test scores by 80% and above.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Project Coordinator
University of Kansas, Bureau of Child Research
07.2025 - 12.2025
- Provide coaching & mentoring to teachers
- Create & prepare materials for professional development ensuring state standards.
- Code implementation fidelity data
- Maintain project files & confidential research data
- Contribute in analyzing activities for two federally funded research grants
- KU Center for Disabilities, Life Span Institute
4th Grade School Teacher
Blue Valley School District
Overland Park, KS
08.2024 - 07.2025
- Facilitated IEP meetings, maintaining legal compliance and collaboration with special education staff
- Contributed to the development of annual curriculum maps ensuring alignment with grade level objectives & state standards
- Executed engaging lesson plans that increased standardized test scores through evidence-based teaching practices
- Implemented differentiated instruction strategies, addressing the unique needs of each student
- Managed classroom behavior effectively, establishing clear expectations & consequences while providing a respectful learning environment
Kindergarten School Teacher
Blue Valley School District
Overland Park, KS
09.2023 - 05.2024
- Taught a variety of subjects including phonics, reading, math, language arts, science and social studies
- Organized field trips related to curriculum topics in order to promote real world experiences
- Created a positive, safe, and stimulating classroom environment for young students
4th Grade School Teacher
Des Moines, IA
08.2019 - 05.2024
- Developed students’ critical thinking skills through engaging group projects and individual assignments
- Participated in professional development opportunities, remaining current on leading practices in education and innovative teaching techniques
- Established open communication and positive relationships with students, peers, guardians, and administrative staff.
- Led several community service projects, including fundraisers for organizations, such as ALS, Alzheimer’s Association, and Blank Children’s Hospital
Education
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Iowa State University
Ames, IASkills
- Assessment Software & Student Information Systems (SIS)
- Google Workspace for Education
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Word)
Timeline
Research Project Coordinator
University of Kansas, Bureau of Child Research
07.2025 - 12.2025
4th Grade School Teacher
Blue Valley School District
08.2024 - 07.2025
Kindergarten School Teacher
Blue Valley School District
09.2023 - 05.2024
4th Grade School Teacher
08.2019 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Iowa State University