MY STORY
As a dedicated educator, my career has been spent working to create transformative learning experiences. Over the past 20 years, I have led at the building, state, and district levels. This has involved working with over 70 districts directly. Working with so many districts has given me a unique view of school leadership and implementing learning initiatives. With my colleagues, we have championed shifts to project-based learning, increasing access, and eliminating barriers for traditionally minoritized student populations. Learning in public schools can be a life-changing experience, and great teachers change lives. My mission is to create conditions where we can realize the power of education and to create systemic change from the inside.
MELISSA L. STAGER
Leading Change in Education
PROFESSIONAL HISTORY
My Qualifications
CONSULTANT, TEACHER2TEACHER
Worked with districts to help develop learning goals for teachers. Coached teachers using a SMARTIE cycle, which resulted in increased teacher satisfaction and performance.
DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION, SOMERVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Oversaw Pk-12 learning initiatives and professional development. Implemented five new courses, and oversaw a K-10 shift in math, and a K-8 shift in literacy. Oversaw district equity team
OFFICE OF CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION, NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Worked with Bergen and Warren County, as well as districts across the state to increase student access. Oversaw Law Enforcement and Technology Career Custer. This included partnering with the NJ Department of Labor and other entities.
MORRIS AND SOMERSET COUNTY EDUCATION SPECIALIST, NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Oversaw grants and programming for over 60 districts. Conducted QSAC evaluations, and investigated compliance concerns. Oversaw county professional groups including K-8 Principal Group, and Curriculum Supervisor Groups. Worked with county agencies to support school initiatives.
ADJUNCT, DELAWARE VALLEY UNIVERSITY & NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY
Oversaw Student Teaching Candidates, Taught ELL and the Multicultural Classroom, Literacy in the Content Area, Policy in Practice
DIRECTOR, SUMMER INSTITUTE FOR THE GIFTED, STUART COUNTY DAY SCHOOL
Served as a principal and program director for a K-8 daily gifted and talented school.
ADJUNCT, NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY
Oversight of student teachers and EdTPA.
EDUCATIONAL HISTORY
Learning and Living
DOCTOR OF EDUCATION , ST. PETER'S UNIVERSITY
May 2022
Educational Leadership and School Administration
MASTER OF SCIENCE, MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY
May 2013
School Leadership
MASTER OF SCIENCE, STATE UNIVERSTY OF NEW YORK AT POTSDAM
May 2002
Reading
BACHELOR OF ARTS, ST. JOHN FISHER COLLEGE
May 1999
English Major with an Education Minor
"Believe you can and you're halfway there"