A New Resource in Special Education: Dr. Melissa Hartman’s Foundations of Special Education: Transcending Barriers

At CLP Consulting, we are proud to work alongside educators and leaders who are transforming the landscape of K-12 education. One of those leaders is Dr. Melissa A. Hartman, a seasoned special education expert, national consultant, and Assistant Professor of Education and Leadership at Shenandoah University. We are thrilled to announce the release of her new book, Foundations of Special Education: Transcending Barriers, now available through Kendall Hunt Publishing.

A Book Rooted in Experience and Purpose

With over 35 years of experience working with students on the autism spectrum, Dr. Hartman brings a practitioner’s insight and a scholar’s perspective to everything she does. Her work as a special education supervisor for Loudoun County Public Schools, combined with her national training efforts through CAST, has shaped her into a trusted voice in the field. Her passion for inclusive, effective education is evident in every chapter of this new publication.

Foundations of Special Education: Transcending Barriers is more than a textbook. It is a comprehensive, engaging survey of the field of special education - from its historical roots in the 1800s to the legal, instructional, and technological advancements of today. The book was created with educators, college students, and professors in mind, offering a well-organized overview of essential topics such as learning theories, classroom management, special education law, instructional strategies, assistive technology, and the characteristics of students with disabilities.

Accessible, Engaging, and Designed for Today’s Learners

Dr. Hartman’s goal was to create a text that readers would not only understand but enjoy reading. Each chapter is short, focused, and accompanied by embedded videos, real-life case studies, and discussion prompts that encourage further inquiry. This user-friendly format supports both independent learning and classroom discussion, making it the perfect companion for any introductory course in special education.

The book also serves as a valuable resource for new educators, paraprofessionals, school administrators, and even parents who want to better understand the systems and strategies involved in supporting students with disabilities. Its accessibility does not come at the expense of rigor. Rather, it creates a clear entry point into what can often feel like a complex or overwhelming field.

From Classroom Need to National Impact

The idea for the book was born from Dr. Hartman’s own experience teaching at the university level. After struggling to find a single resource that covered all required content in a way that resonated with her students, she shared her frustration at home. Her husband’s response was simple: “Why don’t you write one yourself?” As fate would have it, the very next day she received an email from Kendall Hunt Publishing seeking new authors. Within weeks, a proposal was submitted, and the project was underway.

Since its release, student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have commented on the approachable tone, embedded media, and practical structure of the book. It is quickly becoming a go-to resource for those entering the field of special education.

A Reflection of CLP’s Mission

Dr. Hartman’s work mirrors the core values we uphold at CLP Consulting: collaboration, accessibility, and a deep commitment to student success. Whether through her consulting, her classroom teaching, or her writing, she is helping shape the next generation of educators and ensuring that students with disabilities receive the support they deserve.

We are proud to have her as part of our team and even prouder to share this important resource with our network.

Explore the Book

Foundations of Special Education: Transcending Barriers is available now through Kendall Hunt Publishing. To learn more or to order a copy, visit the publisher’s website here: Foundations of Special Education: Transcending Barriers

If you are interested in bringing Dr. Hartman’s expertise to your district, or would like to learn more about how CLP Consulting supports special education programs, we invite you to contact us. We are here to help you create customized solutions that meet the diverse needs of your students and staff.