Melodee Loshbaugh, EdD – Dr. Mel
Executive Academic Director, NWES

Melodee has been an educator for many years. She started her work as an elementary classroom teacher and since that time has taught at the junior high and college level. In pursuit of answers to questions Dr. Loshbaugh had regarding why certain kids were struggling in school, having difficulty learning to read and/or sit still, she began her pursuit of study which includes the following degrees:

• MAT in Special Education
• MAT in Gifted and Talented
• EdD in Early Literacy Development, 1989, Washington State University.

She owes her desire to understand the problems many students are experiencing to her own children, Gabe and Brock, who both temporarily appeared to be struggling early on with the reading process. Although she was a classroom teacher at the time, she says that the preparation needed to really understand the nature of reading difficulties just wasn’t and still isn’t comprehensive enough in basic teaching certification programs. And, in today’s world, it certainly isn’t enough to prepare teachers for the diverse world of students’ needs today.

Times are changing, kids are changing, and we know so much more about specific learning problems. But, unfortunately, most school systems haven’t had the ability or resources to keep up, and teacher training programs haven’t incorporated this information into their programs either.

Dr. Mel’s belief is that in today’s world it “takes a village” to get our children through school. The pressure is greater than ever before to succeed and the resources are less. She also says, in many cases it requires “out of the box” creative alternatives that really put your student at the center of the solution. The sky is the limit when it comes to making sure your child gets what they need. As co-founder and executive academic director Dr. Mel is committed to offering tailored tutoring services to each of our students.

Rachel Kier
Director, NWES

Rachel’s interest in education began in her first year of college. Her work with special needs students during that time changed her direction from a business degree to education. After earning her BS Liberal Studies, she went on to teach Junior High and High School, mainly Special Education. After several of years teaching all different types of learners, Rachel realized that it is not a one size fits all situation, and students can really succeed in their ideal environment. Rachel went on to earn her MS in Education with an emphasis in special education to explore learning styles and learn more about the process.

Although she is not directly working with student today, she feels connected with student’s success as she works closely with families, student and teachers to ensure that every detail in that student’s experience is considered. It is very fulfilling solving the puzzle of finding the specific, individual recipe that will bring success to each student. Having a school environment that is student focused, really allows the individual needs of the student to be applied, what a rewarding experience…

Rachel genuinely enjoys the process of getting to know each families situation, and hearing the success stories unfold. There is never a dull moment, each students needs, abilities and goals are so different and seeing the progress and goals met is always a joyful experience to be able to share with our families. It wonderful to be part of the solution, and to have alternatives, and solutions to offer people, a student’s education in one of the most important foundations of their life.