My name is Melissa Mooney and I am the full time Talent Development teacher at Elizabeth Lane Elementary.  I'm very excited to be here and I am looking forward to working with all of the students!  I have been a teacher in CMS for almost 20 years.  I have taught 2nd-5th grade as well as my current TD role.  I work with classroom teachers to collaborate and reflect on best practices in gifted education to best differentiate for students' learning styles and interests. 

Here is a little about my background -- I have a B.S. in Criminal Justice and B.S. in Sociology, but then decided to follow my lifelong dream of becoming a teacher.  I went back to school for my masters degree in Elementary Education.  Once I started teaching I realized I enjoyed the gifted side of education and earned my AIG certification.  I really enjoy keeping up with the latest trends and research in education which leads me to try a lot of fun things in my classroom.  One of my favorite parts about working with teachers is presenting professional development for them and watching them have ah-ha moments.  

When I am not at school I enjoy spending time with my son and our dog.  Those two definitely know how to keep their mama busy!  My biggest hobby is reading and you will always find me carrying a book (or three) in my bag.  I love to talk about books and always enjoy when kids share their reads with me.  I enjoy being outdoors - whether it is on the greenway or playing on the beach.  We are big hikers and it has been fun to see my son take on his love for nature too. I started a nature group for little ones and we hike around the Charlotte area.  Come join us! I look forward to learning about the students and their interests!