MELISSA YAZZOLINO
Petaluma,CA
Summary
Student-focused Multi-Subject Elementary School Teacher with 20+ years of experience designing and implementing lessons that meet the needs of the whole child. Skilled at fostering a growth mindset, promoting student engagement through interactive instruction, and developing innovative curriculum enhancements. Demonstrated track record of leading school initiatives, mentoring faculty, and driving DEI and social-emotional learning programs.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Third Grade Lead Teacher
The Presentation School
01.2016 - Current
- Created cross-curricular projects and activities to enhance Third Grade curriculum.
- Implemented Global Read Aloud Project (2008 – Present).
- Founder, Student Belonging Group (2023 – Present).
- DEI Committee Member (2019 – Present).
- Leadership Team – New Teacher Mentor (2020 – 2025).
- Lower School Social Emotional Learning Director (2018 – 2020).
- Implemented Chromebook 1:1 program into Third Grade (2009 – Present).
- Collaborated with outside schools to create global connections for students.
Fourth Grade Lead Teacher
San Domenico School
01.2008 - 01.2016
- Collaborated in a team-teaching model with 20–25 students.
- Integrated Second Step Character Education program into curriculum.
- Implemented No Bully Task Force and facilitated 'solution teams.'
- Primary School Tech Facilitator (2012 – 2013).
- Developed Digital Citizenship curriculum for 4th and 5th grade.
- Implemented 1:1 iPad program in Fourth Grade (2012).
- Served as Mentor Teacher for new faculty.
Fourth Grade Teacher
The Nativity School
01.2002 - 01.2008
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards.
- Integrated technology and interactive activities to support diverse learning needs.
- Coordinated school-wide events and collaborated on cross-curricular projects.
Second Grade Teacher
Blessed Sacrament School
01.2001 - 01.2002
- Created a positive, structured classroom environment promoting academic growth.
- Designed differentiated instruction strategies to meet varied student needs.
Education
Master of Teaching -
National University
01.2004
Bachelor of Diversified Liberal Arts - undefined
University of San Diego
01.2001
Skills
- Peer mentoring
- Instructional strategies
- Project-based learning
- Classroom management
- Technology integration
Professional Development
- Student Diversity Leadership Gathering (SDLG), 05/01/25
- Cultivating a Culture of Belonging Conference, TBD
- Teachers Mentoring Teachers, Harvard Graduate School of Education, 05/01/24
- How to Lead in Independent Schools Conference, 05/01/24
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Training, 05/01/21
- Responsive Classroom Training, 05/01/16
- ITeach Summer Conference Presenter, 05/01/15
- CAIS Yearly Conference, 08/01/08 - 05/01/11
- WASC Visiting Team Member, 08/01/08
Leadership Experience
- Leadership Team – New Teacher Mentor, 08/01/20, 05/01/25
- Lower School Social Emotional Learning Director, 08/01/18, 05/01/20
- DEI Committee Member, 08/01/19, Present
- Founder, Student Belonging Group, 08/01/23, Present
Timeline
Third Grade Lead Teacher
The Presentation School
01.2016 - Current
Fourth Grade Lead Teacher
San Domenico School
01.2008 - 01.2016
Fourth Grade Teacher
The Nativity School
01.2002 - 01.2008
Second Grade Teacher
Blessed Sacrament School
01.2001 - 01.2002
Bachelor of Diversified Liberal Arts - undefined
University of San Diego
Master of Teaching -
National University