Emely grew up in several states but primarily lived in Pennsylvania. She attended the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. Additionally, she holds an associate’s degree from a local community college in Pennsylvania. Before leaving Pennsylvania, Emely served as the Interim Education Director for a local arts non-profit. In this role, she directed the education division and maintained summer programs for all ages. She also created weekly email communications to enhance community involvement. Emely has also worked as an intern with a former Congressman, representing him at events and meetings.
In 2018, Emely moved to Roanoke to begin her career in education. While working there, she was a special education teacher for Roanoke County Schools. She collaborated with I’m Determined (IMD) and attended their Educator Summit to develop lesson plans based on the IMD nine Elements. These lesson plans were used to establish Mock IEP Mondays at her former school. Emely implemented a department-wide program where students learned about the components of the IEP, the roles of all team members, and procedural safeguards. IMD has invited her to present at conferences on her work with Mock IEP Mondays, including I’m Determined ASPIRE, VCASE, and the DCDT Conference. Emely has also worked with private day placements and DARS to assist her students and their families.
Currently, Emely lives in Alleghany County with her husband.