Dr. Melissa Packwood
Learning Specialist (Freshman/Sophomore)
352-787-7755mwalleypackwood@beaconcollege.eduEducation
- Ph.D. from Keiser University: General Psychology
- M.A. from Walden University: Reading and Literacy
- B.A. from the University of Central Florida: Anthropology
About Dr. Melissa Packwood
Dr. Melissa Packwood is a freshman and sophomore learning specialist at Beacon College. Her background includes experience working with students with learning disabilities and autism in both public schools and in private practice as a consultant. With a career spanning over two decades, Packwood has made significant contributions to the field of education, particularly in creating supportive learning environments that cater to diverse student needs. Her work extends beyond the classroom, as she actively engages in speaking opportunities aimed at improving accessibility and equity in education. Packwood's passion for inclusive practices is evident in her professional development workshops, where she shares innovative strategies for fostering academic success and social inclusion among students of all abilities.
Honors and Awards
- Graduate Certificate in Exceptional Student Education from Walden University
- Florida teaching certificate (Pre-kindergarten to grade 3, ESL, K-12 ESE, K-12 Reading)
- Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) Ethics Certificate
- FSU Professional Certification in the Fundamentals of Neurodiversity
Publications
- Using Dynamic Online Learning Strategies to Support Neurodiverse Students and Students with Learning Disabilities at the 2025 UCF’s Pegasus Innovation Lab Online Innovation Summit
- Empowering Youth as They Transition to Adulthood: Fostering Executive Functioning Skills for Lifelong Success at the 2025 Daniel Memorial Institute Foster Care Conference Pre-Conference Full Day Institute
- Empowering Students with Apraxia of Speech as They Transition to College at the 2025 Apraxia Kids Virtual National Conference
- Pathological Demand Avoidance for Parents and Professionals at the National Foster Care Association Conference
- Pathological Demand Avoidance for Parents and Professionals at the Apraxia Kids National Conference
- Supporting Children with Oppositional Behavior Patterns at the Daniel Kids Foster Care Conferences
- How can I help a child with a specific learning disability? at the Daniel Kids Growing Pains Conference