Melissa is a mission-driven educator whose passion for helping learners become the best possible versions of themselves has allowed her to work with first-generation students, immigrant, refugee, and international students, adult students, pre-med students, and more. She has counseled students 1x1, led staff and faculty professional development efforts, and designed and taught college curriculum on identity, learning, and leadership development. Melissa holds a bachelor's in Latin American and Latino/a/x studies and communications and a master's in educational leadership, both from DePaul University.
Melissa is a proud mom, experimental cook, frequenter of bakeries, and intrepid traveler. She and her husband have visited more than 20 countries - sometimes even daring to bring along their daughter, Nadia!
"The men of experiment are like the ant; they only collect and use. But the bee gathers its materials from the flowers of the garden and of the field, but transforms and digests it by a power of its own." -Leonardo da Vinci
Meet More Staff
Karly Vance
Regional School Director
Maine East High School
Christopher Schnecke
Academic Coach
Maine East High School
Angel Barragan
Academic Coach
Warren Township High School
Logan Shearer
College Counselor
Maine East High School