Announcement: New Director of Special Education
Little Miami School District is excited to welcome the newest member of our Panther family, Melissa Buckalew! Melissa joins us as our new Director of Special Education. With an extensive background in educational leadership, Melissa brings a wealth of experience, passion and a proven track record of driving positive change in special education.
"It is with immense honor and excitement that I step into this position, knowing that I have the privilege to serve such an extraordinary community," said Buckalew. "I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated educators, parents, students, and community members to make a positive difference in the lives of our students with special needs. I look forward to the meaningful work that lies ahead."
Melissa most recently served as the District Coordinator of Special Education at Forest Hills School District. During her seven-year tenure as the coordinator, Melissa demonstrated exceptional leadership by leading PK-12+ district special education teams through district initiatives, overseeing preschool and transition to work curriculum development, continuum of service expansions, and intervention resource training. Before her coordinator role, Melissa was an Assistant Principal for three years.
Before her role at Forest Hills School District, Melissa spent 11 years in Mariemont City Schools as a second and fourth grade teacher and the District RTI Coordinator. She began her education career as a first and second grade teacher in Cincinnati Public Schools.
Melissa holds a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master's in Education Administration from Xavier University of Ohio. She also earned a Master's in Education Leadership from Concordia University of Chicago.
