Melissa Axelsson graduated from The College of New Jersey with a degree in Elementary Education. She also focused on Biology courses while studying Elementary Education and as a result has her certification in Biological Sciences. She then taught in Egg Harbor City, NJ for 12 years as a middle school science and mathematics teacher. While teaching she earned her Masters in Special Education from Rowan University. Egg Harbor City middle school began to work with the NJ Center for Teaching and Learning (NJCTL) on developing middle school math courses. As a result, Melissa started working part time for NJCTL which led to her current position. Melissa is now working full time for NJCTL as the Dean of Students.