Michelle Hicks

Dr. Michelle Hicks is an Assistant Professor of Special Education and Disability Policy in the Department of Counseling and Special Education at Virginia Commonwealth University's School of Education. Her research focuses on braille literacy instruction, teacher preparation for visually impaired students, and autism support strategies for elementary-aged children and their families.

Recent publications examine special education licensure diversity, early intervention services during COVID-19, and the evolving role of visual impairment educators during the pandemic. With 27 years of K-12 special education experience, Dr. Hicks holds teaching certifications in specific learning disabilities and emotional disabilities.

She earned her PhD from Virginia Commonwealth University, a Master's in Teaching Reading from Old Dominion University, and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Hampton University. Her work addresses critical gaps in special education training and service delivery.