Meet Our Staff – Melissa Newman

Melissa Newman – Admissions Coordinator

How long have you been working with children and where did you work before MSS? 

I have been working with children for 22 years. Before working for Magnolia Speech School, I worked as an occupational therapist (OT) for Beyond Therapy and prior to that I worked as an OT for the Rankin County School District.

What made you want to work at MSS?

While working for Beyond Therapy, I was able to serve as the OT for MSS and witness firsthand the amazing work their staff does on a daily basis and the tremendous strides their students make.  MSS is a very special place.  I am very excited to join this team and work with the current families and students and assist them in reaching their language and academic goals.

What are your hobbies (outside of work!)? 

In my free time I enjoy Pilates, reading and spending time with my family (my husband Lee, son Greyson and daughter Harper).

What is your favorite thing about working at MSS? 

My favorite thing about working at MSS is being able to see the progress the students make and getting to see how this boosts their self-esteem and confidence.

What can you not start your day without? 

I can’t start my day without COFFEE!

Give us a fun or weird fact about you! 

Despite my love of adventure, travel and trying new things I am not a fan of getting dirty.  So, a fun fact about me would be that my husband convinced me to do a Warrior Dash with him.  See the attached picture for proof of how very muddy we were.  I was way out of my comfort zone!  My family and friends thought this was VERY FUNNY!