About Chelsea Mellott
Special Education Teacher | Advocate | Lifelong Learner
Marce Herz Middle School | Washoe County School District | Reno, NV
My Mission
Every student deserves an education tailored to their unique needs and abilities. My mission is to create a supportive, engaging learning environment where students with autism and other special needs can thrive, build confidence, and develop skills for independent living.
Teaching Philosophy
I believe in meeting each student where they are. Learning should be:
- Individualized - Every student has unique strengths and challenges
- Visual and Structured - Clear expectations and routines build confidence
- Engaging - Learning happens best when it's meaningful and fun
- Functional - Skills should transfer to real-world situations
- Celebratory - Every achievement, big or small, deserves recognition
Experience
With years of dedicated experience in special education, I have worked with students across the autism spectrum, helping them develop:
Academic Skills
Reading, math, and writing adapted to individual learning styles
Life Skills
Daily living skills, time management, and self-care routines
Social Skills
Communication, emotional regulation, and peer interactions
Vocational Skills
Job readiness, workplace behaviors, and career exploration
In My Classroom
My classroom is designed to be a calm, organized space where students feel safe to learn and grow. We use:
- •Visual schedules to provide predictability and reduce anxiety
- •Structured work systems for independent learning
- •Technology integration with adaptive tools and interactive activities
- •Positive reinforcement to celebrate progress and build motivation
- •Data-driven instruction to track progress and adjust teaching strategies
Let's Connect!
Have questions about my classroom or teaching approach? I'd love to hear from you.
Contact Me