About

Hello! My name is Melissa Garrett. Although I took a more non-traditional path in pursuing higher education, earning a degree was always a goal. After graduating from high school in 1996, I began college with the intent of earning a degree in Childhood Education. However, Life had other plans. One husband, three children, and more than twenty years later, I finally finished what I had so long ago begun. I graduated summa cum laude from SUNY Cortland in May 2020 (during a global pandemic!) with a degree in Inclusive Childhood Education and am certified to teach general education and special education, grades 1-6. I also have a master’s degree in Literacy Education, birth-12.

I chose to teach because my passion lies in the classroom among students. I am especially interested in teaching children with disabilities. Having a son on the autism spectrum with diagnosed anxiety disorder, and who has struggled academically, socially, and emotionally, I have witnessed the positive impact that teachers who value inclusive education have on these exceptional students. I have also witnessed teachers on the other end of the spectrum and vowed to be an advocate for change.  

My goal with this site is to chronicle my journey as a new teacher, as well as to share my love of books, literacy, and learning.

Melissa Garrett