Melissa Fasten

Senior Program Manager

What I like most about my role within the Center is…

My amazing colleagues and working with teachers/educators! I learn from and value every relationship with my teammates. Supporting educators has always been my passion. I believe they have the most important role in the world.

What I believe in

Lifelong learning.

“One child, one teacher, one pen can change the world.” Malafa Yousafzai

Previous work highlights

My entire career has been in higher education specifically within Schools of Education. Before moving to the Boston area, I was employed at Wilmington University in Delaware for 10 years. In this role, I worked closely with faculty and deans on program and university accreditation including data collection, budget, and student support.

Favorite book

Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë

Fun fact

I have a mini book club with my 13 year old son. Jason Reynolds is his favorite author.

Education

BS. Internet Design and Technology
Master of Elementary Education

October 4, 2022 Wendy Vaulton, Associate Director for Reading Recovery and Early Interventions

A is for Assessment: Considerations for linking assessment and instruction

Educational researcher Rachael Gabriel notes that a truly scientific approach to reading would acknowledge that “each student will require different kinds and degrees of support for component skills and the many processes of literacy” (Gabriel, 2021). But how do we uncover the kinds and degrees of support that will be most effective for individual students? Our best shot starts with assessment that is authentic, asset-based, actionable, and anti-racist. Think of these characteristics as a framework, wherein each facet supports the other in the development of responsive teaching.

September 14, 2022 Maria Nichols, Author & Consultant

Engaging Hearts and Minds Through Purposeful Talk

Create conditions and supports for engaging hearts and minds in ways that build depth of meaning making, compassion, and critical process for all students, including our youngest learners.

September 2, 2022 Cindy Downend, Associate Director of Literacy Programs

Focus on Phonics: Five Tips for a Successful Beginning with Phonics, Spelling and Word Study Lessons

Daily systematic explicit phonics instruction is essential for students to learn how to read effectively. Consider these five pointers for organizing your time and materials from the Fountas & Pinnell Phonics, Spelling, and Word Study Systems.