Melissa Cavagnini
Nashville
Summary
Instructional designer and educator with 4+ years of experience designing accessible, data-driven learning experiences for diverse audiences. Proven ability to translate complex content into engaging curricula, training materials, and performance supports. Strong background in adult learning theory, accessibility, and learning analytics, with hands-on experience collaborating cross-functionally and leading training initiatives.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Transition Department Chair
Nolensville High School
07.2025 - Current
- Designed and facilitated instructor-led and blended training programs for staff, increasing consistency in process implementation and compliance.
- Developed standardized training materials, documentation templates, and process guides to support scalable training delivery across teams.
- Managed training schedules, resources, and stakeholder communication across teams.
- Evaluated training effectiveness and refined materials based on feedback and outcomes.
Transition 2 Special Education Teacher
Nolensville High School
01.2024 - Current
- Designed, developed, and implemented an adult learning curriculum focused on workplace readiness and skill transfer.
- Created performance support tools including job aids, task guides, and quick-reference materials.
- Partnered with external stakeholders to align learning objectives with business and workforce needs.
- Documented learning outcomes and updated materials based on learner performance data.
Low Incidence Learning Coordinator
KIPP Nashville College Prep Middle School
08.2022 - 12.2023
- Analyzed student data to inform intervention adjustments and created monitoring tools adopted across the special education team.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with general education, related services, and leadership teams to strengthen Tier 1-3 systems.
- Designed and conducted a variety of standards-aligned lesson plans for grades 5-8 for core contents.
Research Assistant
Da Fonte Research Lab, Vanderbilt University
08.2020 - 12.2021
- Conducted literature reviews and analyzed survey data for AT/AAC projects, contributing to manuscript and presentations.
- Coordinated deliverables and timelines across research teams to ensure project milestones were met.
Education
M.Ed. - Special Education, concentration in Severe Disabilities
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN05.2022
B.A. - Human Development and Family Studies (non-licensure), Hispanic Literature and Cultures
University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC05.2020
Skills
- Adult learning theory and universal design for learning
- Curriculum development
- Project management
- Instructional design
- Graphic design tools
- Office and productivity software
Certification
Tennessee Comprehensive Special Education K-12, 05/22
Timeline
Transition Department Chair
Nolensville High School
07.2025 - Current
Transition 2 Special Education Teacher
Nolensville High School
01.2024 - Current
Low Incidence Learning Coordinator
KIPP Nashville College Prep Middle School
08.2022 - 12.2023
Research Assistant
Da Fonte Research Lab, Vanderbilt University
08.2020 - 12.2021
M.Ed. - Special Education, concentration in Severe Disabilities
Vanderbilt University
B.A. - Human Development and Family Studies (non-licensure), Hispanic Literature and Cultures
University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill