Dr. Melody Rider

Dr. Melody Rider joined ConnectED Polk (formerly Lakeland Leads) because of her passion for education, community engagement, and advocacy. Beginning as a preschool, kindergarten, and 1st-grade teacher, she transitioned into strategic planning, human resources, and financial management in the educational sector. With multiple advanced degrees, including a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, and over 20 years in higher education, Dr. Rider’s career can be characterized by her dedication to student success, leadership development, and cross-divisional collaboration.

As the first to graduate college in her family, Dr. Rider values education deeply. Her journey reflects her dedication to supporting students in reaching their full potential and advocating for resources and programs. In her role at ConnectED Polk, Dr. Rider continues to pursue these same efforts, engaging the business community to support workforce preparedness in Polk County Schools.

Exhibiting her dedication to community engagement, Dr. Rider served on several boards including the Salvation Army, Career Source Polk, Lakeland Rotary, and Junior Achievement. In addition, Dr. Rider is a member of the Lakeland Economic Development Council and Lakeland Rotary and has participated in Leadership Lakeland Class #38, Leadership Polk Class #17, Inside PCPS Class #3, and is a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success.