Special Education Teacher, tMHFA Instructor, YMHFA Instructor
Mount Olive Township School District
Port Murray, New Jersey
My name is Melissa Grosenstein, and I am from Mount Olive School District in Flanders, NJ. I have been an educator for 20+ years. For me, education and coaching are more than careers — they are ways of life shaped by personal experiences and a deep commitment to helping students thrive. As a high school educator, Teen Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor, I work every day to equip young people and staff with the skills to recognize challenges, build resilience, and support one another.
My passion for this work is deeply rooted in my own family’s journey. My son’s challenges with mental health have given me a profound understanding of what it means for a young person to feel supported, valued, and understood. That experience continues to drive my mission: I am committed to creating safe, supportive spaces where all students feel valued and included, while equipping them with the skills and confidence to balance challenges, build resilience, and succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Outside of the classroom, I lead with the same purpose. I coach Unified Sports and serve as the Unified Club Advisor, where I bring students of all abilities together to build community, teamwork, and lasting friendships. I also coach my school’s swim team, helping my athletes learn how to balance academics, athletics, and personal growth.
Looking toward the future, I am excited to expand my impact by pursuing certification as a Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant (LDT-C). This next step will allow me to advocate even more strongly for students with diverse learning needs and ensure that every young person has access to the tools and opportunities they deserve.
I believe in the power of education, inclusion, and mental health advocacy to change lives. I carry with me the words of George Evans — “Every student can learn, just not on the same day or in the same way” — and I strive each day to live by Ayesha Siddiqi’s reminder to “Be the person you needed when you were younger.”
Sunday, April 26, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM MDT