Michelle Elia serves as a consultant at the State Support Team Region 5, working to increase teacher awareness of inclusive best practices and instructional strategies to engage all students in their classrooms. In addition, she is a part time professor at Youngstown State University, where she teaches both graduate and undergrad special education courses. Her goal is for all of her students to leave with the awareness that the capacity for students with disabilities to learn is limitless. Michelle is also a part time professor at Walsh University, where she teaches both literacy and pupil services courses. She believes a strong foundation in literacy is essential for all students. She is also an INFOhio District/Building ICoach. Previously, Mrs. Elia worked for fifteen years as an intervention specialist, and for one year as a preschool teacher. Michelle holds a MaEd from Walsh University.