About

Tessa’s passion for education began early, growing up in a family of educators—her grandmother and father were administrators, and her mother taught kindergarten. At just 18 years old, she became a teaching assistant in a multi-disability support classroom, where her love for working with children truly took root.

After earning her degree in Special Education from Bloomsburg University, Tessa began her teaching career in a Full-Time Learning Support classroom at Parkland High School. Her journey has taken her through a wide range of educational environments, including Primary Autistic Support at The Rock Brook School in New Jersey, Learning Support for grades 4–6 in the Hempfield School District, and Early Intervention for children ages 3–5 with Sayegh Pediatric Therapy Services in the Lehigh Valley.

Tessa’s experience teaching children from ages 3 to 21 has given her a deep and comprehensive understanding of student and family needs academically, emotionally, and physically. Her work has focused not only on development but also on ensuring access to community resources and appropriate support systems.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Tessa is the proud mother of two teenage boys—an experience that has profoundly shaped her perspective on child development, education, and the importance of strong community networks. She has also coached various youth sports, including tennis, basketball, and baseball, enriching her ability to connect with and support children in diverse settings.

Tessa lives by her favorite quote: “The significance of a life is determined by being significant in others’ lives.” With this in mind, she is proud to serve her community through The Sensory Village, where she is dedicated to supporting children and families in meaningful, impactful ways.

Melissa has always been inspired to help young children grow into independent and successful learners. Her journey began in her own home, assisting her mother in a home-based childcare environment—a foundation that would ultimately lead to the vision behind The Sensory Village.

With over 20 years of experience in early childhood and special education, Melissa has developed a deep understanding of how children—and their families—learn and grow together. She believes that supporting a child’s development involves nurturing the whole family dynamic, and this belief has been central to her work and mission.

Melissa has held a wide variety of roles that have shaped her approach to education and child development. These include classroom teacher, camp counselor, volunteer coach, nanny, teacher mentor, early childhood education director, special education teacher, early intervention evaluator, and special instructor. Each of these roles has given her valuable insight into the unique needs of children across different ages and developmental stages.

Melissa also draws from her personal experience as a wife and mother, which has further shaped her understanding of the importance of community, empathy, and individualized support in early education. Her academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education—both of which continue to inform her work every day.

Through The Sensory Village, Melissa is proud to bring together her knowledge, experience, and passion to create a supportive, inclusive space where children of all abilities can thrive.