IU13 Special Education Teacher Named 2026 “Educator of the Year” by Discovery Education
Lancaster County, PA: Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 (IU13) is proud to announce that Melissa Myer (Nottingham, PA), an itinerant special education STEM teacher, has been named a 2026 Educator of the Year by Discovery Education — a prestigious national honor awarded to only six educators across the country.
The Discovery Education Awards recognize educators who make a profound impact on student achievement by fostering meaningful learning experiences and driving continuous student growth. Award recipients are selected for their innovation, adaptability, leadership, and unwavering dedication to students.
Melissa Myer was recognized for her exceptional ability to make STEM education accessible, engaging, and empowering for students with special needs. Through thoughtfully designed lessons and adaptive instructional practices, she ensures every student can participate in the lesson.
“Melissa transforms access into opportunity and exemplifies the power of inclusive education,” said Matt Stem, Executive Director of Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13. “Her creativity, compassion, and commitment to authentic student engagement are changing lives in every classroom where she serves.”
As an itinerant special education STEM teacher, Myer travels between classrooms to deliver hands-on STEM instruction tailored to diverse learning needs. She integrates Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), adaptive tools, switches, and specialized equipment into her lessons so students of all abilities can fully engage in learning.
Her teaching approach emphasizes multisensory, inquiry-based learning experiences that builds confidence alongside academic skills. By breaking down complex STEM concepts into accessible, cause-and-effect activities, Myer helps students explore scientific ideas at their own pace while developing curiosity and independence.
One standout lesson highlighted in her nomination focused on beach erosion and environmental engineering. Using the STEM design process — Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, and Improve — students investigated how water impacts sand formations through tactile experiments using sand and water models. Students then explored real-world engineering solutions through beach nourishment activities, connecting classroom learning to environmental challenges while strengthening scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Myer’s classroom practices are rooted in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), ensuring lessons are intentionally created to remove barriers and amplify student voice. She incorporates high-contrast visuals, carefully positioned materials, and adaptive devices to support students with a range of communication, visual, and physical needs.
Beyond the classroom, Myer serves as a mentor and leader within IU13’s STEM program. She shares instructional resources through program blogs, provides professional development for colleagues, and advocates for inclusive decision-making when implementing new STEM initiatives and technologies.
Her dedication to continuous learning has also shaped her professional growth. In response to student needs, Myer pursued coursework in American Sign Language and continues studying ASL to strengthen communication and deepen connections with students.
“Melissa’s work demonstrates what inclusive, accessible STEM education can look like,” said Dr. Peggy Anastasio, Director of School-age Special Education for IU13. “Her innovation, compassion, and leadership are transforming opportunities for students across our region.”
Through her creativity, advocacy, and commitment to equitable learning, Melissa Myer is helping redefine what is possible for students in special education — ensuring every learner has access to meaningful STEM experiences and the opportunity to thrive.
Click here to learn more about the STEM Classes at IU13. Click here to learn more about the Discovery Ed Awards Program. ###
Media Contact: Shannan B. Guthrie, 717-203-5433 or shannan_guthrie@iu13.org
