Leadership Update

The Yakima School District is pleased to announce the selection of Stephanie Melton as Assistant Director of Special Education Services, effective July 1, 2026, pending approval by the school board.

Ms. Melton joins our leadership team with an extensive background in special education administration and school psychology. Since July 2024, she has served as the Assistant Director of Special Education for the West Valley School District. In this capacity, she has managed inclusion and transition programs, supervised both certificated and classified staff, and facilitated vital connections with community agencies. A certified Safety Care trainer, Stephanie has also been instrumental in leading professional development regarding de-escalation and safety procedures.

Prior to her recent administrative role, Stephanie served for eight years as a School Psychologist and District Team Leader at West Valley High School. Her work focused on conducting comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations, designing behavior interventions, and guiding legal and ethical decision-making involving all stakeholders.

Stephanie holds a Master of Education in School Administration and an Education Specialist degree in School Psychology from Central Washington University. Her current academic research focuses on addressing post-COVID trends in chronic absenteeism through evidence-based interventions.

A resident of the Northwest for over 20 years and a Yakima resident for the past decade, Stephanie comes from a dedicated family of educators. Her husband, Paul, is a CTE teacher, and her daughter, Kylie, currently serves as a school psychologist within the Yakima School District. Outside of her professional life, Stephanie enjoys gardening and spending time with her husband and four children.

Please join us in welcoming Stephanie Melton to the YSD team as we continue our commitment to providing equitable support for every student.

For more updates and information, visit YSD7.org/leadershipupdates.