Michelle Nelson is a Program Coordinator for the California AfterSchool Network (CAN).  Michelle has worked with CAN since November of 2015. 

Michelle graduated from UC Berkeley with degrees in Political Science and Media Studies. During her time at UC Berkeley, she participated in the UCDC Washington Program, where she completed an internship at the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) in the Office of Safe and Healthy Students. While working at the U.S. Department of Education she specialized in tracking rates of cyber-bullying among K-12 students in a variety of demographics. 

Following her work with the USDE, Michelle worked supporting and monitoring a multi-site  21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program with Hull Research at UC Berkeley. She then completed a Policy Internship with the Partnership for Children and Youth. During her internship she researched Local Control Accountability Plans (LCAPs) and reported  on statewide LCAP investment in expanded learning programs. 

Michelle’s interest in after school and expanded learning is fueled by the impact it had on her own life as a first-generation college student from a low-income background. Michelle attributes much of her motivation and persistence to attend and complete higher education to the support she received in after school programs and clubs. 

In her spare time, Michelle enjoys traveling, cooking and baking. She also enjoys spending time with her kitten, Pearl.