SPED Grad Transforms Southside Transition Services
Megan Graves (MS '14), transition and work-based learning coordinator for Appomattox County Public Schools, never expected to specialize in transition services. But the lessons she learned while earning her Master of Science in Education degree in special education (SPED) at Longwood University inspired a passion that has shaped her career. Over the past six years, she has rebuilt the Virginia Region 8 Transition Council, connecting educators, families, state agencies, and community partners to expand opportunities beyond high school for students with disabilities.
Finding Her Calling
Megan's path to special education wasn't traditional. After earning a bachelor's in biology with a minor in education, she planned to attend veterinary school until a practicum in an inclusive classroom changed her trajectory. Just four days before classes began, she applied to Longwood's special education program, where a campus tour with Dr. Chris Jones confirmed she was in the right place.
"It just felt right — the conversations, everything,” she said. “It's just one of those feelings that you get…I'm really thankful that Longwood gave me the opportunity because I didn't really fit the mold."
Learning to Look at Impact
One aspect of Longwood's SPED program stood out to Megan from the beginning: its commitment to evidence-based teaching.
"We all hear the words ‘data-driven approach’ in education now, but Longwood's program was ahead of the game with its teacher preparation."
More than a decade later, she still credits two professors with shaping her approach.
“I loved Dr. Jones's course on data and looking at effect sizes of programs,” said Megan. “It really taught me to look at the impact, not the appearance. Dr. Ruth Meese with her transition class inspired my passion for the importance of transition.”
Building Better Pathways
The lessons Megan learned at Longwood inspired her to rebuild and lead the Region 8 Transition Council in 2020, where she has created partnerships among schools, families, state agencies and community organizations. Through transition fairs, professional development, and regional collaboration, the council has expanded opportunities for students with disabilities. She also serves on the board of the Virginia Division on Career Development and Transition, where she helps advance transition services across the Commonwealth.
"I really give credit to Longwood's staff for stressing the importance of transition and its impact on student outcomes, which provided the knowledge and passion to take on the challenge."
What she values most isn't a single initiative. It's the relationships the council has built.
"I think I am most proud of the incredible network of experts that have been created through the council. Agencies and teachers connected to address issues and learn from each other. It is a great thing."
Student Success First
Despite her growing regional leadership, Megan still measures success one student at a time. That commitment earned her recognition as the 2021–22 Appomattox County Teacher of the Year and the 2023 Region 8 Teacher of the Year.
“One of my favorite parts of the job is seeing students walk away with scholarship money. Or we had a post grad that is in the second year of my internship program who is going to be hired full time at his current place of employment. And that's huge to me because he didn't have that opportunity two years ago."
Looking forward Megan hopes to strengthen collaboration between career and technical education and special education.
"The more that those two programs can collaborate, the more opportunities there will be."
A Recommendation for Future Educators
Megan’s advice to future special educators is simple:
"I would 100% recommend Longwood's program because it will provide you with the best possible toolkit to take on the challenges of education. You will find your passion, knowledge, and a community that will help you be successful in this field."