Tiffany McAfee joins our team as our newest Director of Personalized Learning at Merit Preparatory Charter School in Newark, NJ.  We interviewed Tiffany on her new role.

What led you to Matchbook Learning?  Describe your journey here.

My journey to Matchbook Learning has been a unique one. As a founding teacher at Merit Prep, using blended learning was not new to me, however the Matchbook model has added clarity and structure to how I use technology in the classroom. Now that I have transitioned to being a Director of Personalized Learning, I am excited to support teachers in leveraging their skills and knowledge in implementing the Matchbook model.

What most attracted you to this position?  What do you think will be the biggest challenge of serving as a Matchbook Director of Personalized Learning (DPL)?

What attracted me to the DPL position was that I had the experience of using the model as a teacher and wanted to support my colleagues with using the model as well as building and leveraging their teacher craft while using the model. I love working with my colleagues to create and share best practices within such an innovative model.

I think the biggest challenge serving as a DPL would be helping teachers to see the positive no matter the challenge. The initial implementation of the Matchbook model for teachers can be a challenge. It takes grit and determination to do things differently in the classroom.  It is different from a traditional point of view and really challenges one’s experience and know-how. But the end goal is much more rewarding.  I want teachers to know the upfront challenge is worth it for the benefit for our children. I want to encourage them to constantly to keep the children first.

What are the keys to accomplishing a school turnaround?

I think one of the most important keys to accomplishing a school turnaround is building and supporting highly qualified, passionate, and dedicated teachers. It is important that teachers are continuously developed in not only their content but also their teaching craft. Creating professional learning communities where teachers can learn, share and grow together is very critical to the success of children. Having space within the school day to share those best practices with each other and having a chance to practice and implement them as well is critical to student success. As teachers improve, students improve. Additionally teachers need that rotation of observation, feedback and coaching for continued growth.

Another key to accomplishing a school turnaround is to provide holistic support for students. When we begin to help students see the importance of education to their future and goals, academic goals are within greater reach. We must attend to their emotional, social, and physical needs as well. Education is more than academics and we can never forget that.

What are your goals for this next year?  What are your expectations a year from now and how will you be different?

One of my goals is to help establish a great professional learning community for teachers at Merit Prep. It is very important for teachers to be able to learn and share with each other as they work through using the model in the classroom. Creating a learning community within the school will foster great moments and learning opportunities for teachers.

Another one of my goals is to support teachers in leveraging their greatest skills and content knowledge while using the Matchbook model. By providing professional development, observations, timely feedback, in the moment coaching, goal setting and monitoring, teachers will be better prepared to meet the various needs of their students. I am excited to support teachers in this manner.

Next year I want to see the teacher retention rate increase at Merit Prep because I expect teachers to say, “I want to work here because not only do I believe in what the model has done for my students, but what the model as done for me as a teacher. I am a better teacher because of it.”

Because of the work that I will do with my Matchbook team, I hope to have a greater understanding of how to coach and guide teachers and well as becoming a better leader within my team and school.

Why should gifted educators consider working for a Matchbook school?

Gifted educators should consider a Matchbook school because the model will allow them to use their skills and knowledge in the best way to benefit children. At a Matchbook school one’s fire and passion for educating children will be deepen and will grow to new levels.

Lastly, what do you like to do in your spare time?  Offer a glimpse of who you are or what you are like outside of the working day. 

Outside of the working day I enjoy spending time with my family and friends exploring New York City including getting lost on the train. In quiet moments I love completing puzzles and watching The Food Network to explore my creative cooking side. Though not the greatest cook, I love trying new recipes and buying new cookware.