Meet Don Neibert, Matchbook Learning's new Blended Instruction Specialist.  Based in Detroit, Don joins Matchbook Learning's Blended Instruction Specialist Kristin Floreno at our newest school, Law Academy, a K-8 school with the Education Achievement Authority.  Don brings over 20 years of experience in public education.  A content "ninja" Don is always finding and learning the latest ways of instructing children.  Don's lifelong passion for children is evidenced by the five children he has adopted.  We sat down with Don for an interview on this latest chapter in his education career with Matchbook Learning.

What would you describe as the biggest challenge of being our Blended Instruction Specialist?
I believe the biggest challenge is getting the school’s staff to fully implement  the  system and to ask questions about components they don’t understand.   That way we can provide equity for all our students with a clear vision.

What are your goals for this next year?
My goals are to erase achievement gaps with proven methods and strategies.  Goals and high expectations are attainable with leadership, culture, and effective teaching.

What are the keys to accomplishing a school turnaround?
Common goals and equity are keys to turning a school around.  This all begins with the leadership, teachers, and all staff knowing what the common goals are and implementing programs and strategies to attain those goals.

What most attracted you to this position?
What most attracted me to the position was being able to use my current skill set to help others as well as being a part of a blended learning revolution.  Teacher centered teaching does not provide equity to all students whereas a blended model does.

How would you describe your most unique accomplishment to date?
The most unique accomplishment was when I was given the position of a student achievement coach and being able to design a program to promote achievement for our teachers and students.  Furthermore, seeing programs and strategies implemented that I designed was rewarding as well.

Why should gifted educators -- principals and teachers -- consider working for a Matchbook school?
Gifted or effective educators can impact the lives of our students in an effective blended approach and Matchbook supplies the blended approach.  Furthermore, Matchbook supplies the means to attain greater equity among all students.

What are your expectations a year from now?  How will you be different? 
A year from now, I will have the experience of using and seeing the growth potential in a totally blended approach.  As a result, I will continue to grow with more rigor creating a better vision for myself as well.