• Master of Arts, Special Education – CSU, Northridge
• Education Specialist Instruction Credential, Mild/Moderate Disabilities
• BA Psychology – CSU, Northridge
• Lindamood Bell Visualizing/Verbalizing Certification
• Standards Based Instruction Certification
• SB395 CLAD Certification

Melinda is first and foremost the mother of 3 beautiful children. She is a teacher with a Masters degree in Special Education from CSUN. She has taught preschool, elementary school, middle school, high school, and post-secondary education; working with children with disabilities, ranging from autism and other developmental disabilities to deafness and specific learning disabilities. Melinda works with families and their educators in order to best serve children with special needs.  Melinda’s research and work over the past several years has focused on Cochlear implants, and serving their needs in an educational setting.

Mission Statement

My mission is two-fold. First, I will provide respect, love, and support to all children with special needs and their families – regardless of socioeconomic status, language, or disability – so that they may have access to the support and services they need and which are their right, in order to reach their fullest potential in all areas of life. Second, I will liaison directly with families, educators, and all service providers working with children with special needs and their families; providing positive and respectful communication so that the focus remains on the needs and potential of each child without interference from prejudice, constraints, or personal agenda.

Because I was essentially alone as I began this journey of raising a child with special needs and the world of special education, I knew I never wanted another family to feel alone. I don’t want families to have to keep reinventing the wheel in an attempt to navigate this system. My mission and purpose is to help families and educators to fully understand the needs of our children and to help get everyone on the same page in order to serve these beautiful children and help them reach their fullest potential.

~Melinda