Melissa Morrison

Driving instructional change in writing to increase literacy outcomes. Writing Consultant: Changing Ugh to Yay at Writing Time!

Greater Philadelphia

About

I partner with K–8 schools to transform writing instruction through strategic professional development, data-informed coaching, and schoolwide support. My work focuses on shifting mindsets around what writing is and what it can be—making writing more accessible, engaging, and successful for all students. I help teachers differentiate instruction to meet students where they are, align practices to research-based writing pedagogy, and build collaborative, growth-centered cultures among educators. The result? Stronger student writers, more confident teachers, and literacy gains that last. ✅ 19 years in education: paraeducator, teacher, and consultant ✅ Deep expertise in writing development, instructional coaching, and school change ✅ Skilled in data-driven decision-making and building trust with teachers and leadership teams ✅ Trained in evidence-based literacy practices and adult learning Let’s build a writing program that empowers students and energizes teachers.

Experience

  • Owner, Consultant at Teaching to Transform LLC
    Oct 2018 - Present · 7 yrs 10 mos

    My job is to increase K-8 student achievement and growth in writing and reading by providing training and coaching to teachers in writing development and explicit writing instruction.

  • Literacy Consultant at Schoolwide
    Aug 2025 - Present · 1 yr

  • Teacher at Penns Grove Carneys Point Regional School District
    Jan 2008 - Jun 2017 · 9 yrs 6 mos

    • Planned and taught daily lessons in all subject areas for first and second grade curriculum • Planned differentiated lessons and activities for the needs of Title One and gifted students • Planned, helped create, and adapted curriculum in Language Arts • Gathered and analyzed assessment data • Utilized Benchmark Literacy and GoMath • Utilized Lucy Calkins Units of Study in Writing • Participated in various committees including Positive Behavior, K-1 and 1-2 Articulation, Language Arts Curriculum • Established an effective Literacy Environment using best practices such as Modeled and Shared Reading and Writing, Reading Workshop, Writing Workshop, Message Time Plus and individual conferencing with goal setting

  • Teacher at Kuumba Academy Charter School
    Aug 2007 - Jan 2008 · 6 mos

    • Planned and taught daily lessons in all subject areas for fifth grade curriculum • Planned modified lessons and assignments for needs of special education students • Implemented a balanced literacy program utilizing Guided Reading and Writing Workshop

  • Instructional Aide at Penns Grove Carneys Point Regional School DIstrict
    Sep 2004 - Jun 2007 · 2 yrs 10 mos

    • Provided in-class support for four classrooms during Math and Writing • Planned and taught small group Reading and Math lessons • Provided one-on-one instruction for students identified as struggling learners Provided one-on-one instruction using Applied Behavior Analysis • Assisted in design and implementation of programming • Provided instructional and behavioral support for students in inclusion classrooms