The Graves County Special Education Consultant will serve as the Trigg County School special Education Director.
District officials announced Wednesday that Melinda Poole was hired as the district’s new Director of Special Education. Poole brings with her nearly two decades of experience in special education leadership, classroom instruction, and student-centered advocacy.
Mrs. Poole, a native of western Kentucky, holds certifications in both Moderate and Severe Disabilities and Learning and Behavior Disorders (K–12), and is pending final certification as a Director of Special Education. Her professional journey spans 18 years, including roles as a special education teacher, life skills instructor, transition specialist, and consultant. Most recently, she served as a Special Education Consultant and MSD Coach for Graves County Public Schools. Throughout her career, Poole has prioritized inclusive practices and meaningful collaboration with educators, families, and support teams. She has led initiatives in co-teaching, person-centered planning, and transition programming, and has presented at major conferences such as CEC and ED Fest. Her expertise in assistive technology, cognitive coaching, and behavior analysis uniquely positions her to support diverse learner needs in Trigg County.
Poole says she is incredibly excited and deeply honored to join Trigg County Public Schools as the Director of Special Education. She adds “It’s a true privilege to invest in the success of our students and families while supporting the dedicated teachers who make it all possible. I look forward to serving this amazing Wildcat Nation with heart, purpose, and a commitment to excellence.”
Superintendent Rex Booth says Poole brings a tremendous depth of knowledge, a heart for equitable learning, and a strong track record of building meaningful support systems for teachers and students. He adds the district is excited to welcome her to Trigg County, and he is confident her leadership will make a lasting impact across all schools.
Poole holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction and Administration from the University of Findlay and recently completed coursework in Education from Murray State University with a focus on Special Education Leadership. She has also served in regional and state-level roles promoting best practices in transition services and instructional strategies.
Poole will begin her new role effective Monday, August 11.
