About Me!
Who Am I?
I am a passionate educator, tech leader, and creative who is dedicated to creating dynamic educational opportunities and experiences for students, leaders, and educational institutions. I believe in continuously developing my abilities as a leader. I am focused, energetic, and committed to every task I take on. I believe that creativity and innovation are critical to success in the 21st century.
I have worked as a museum director, high school teacher, department chair, high school vice-principal, adjunct professor, elementary school principal, and assistant superintendent. I have over two decades of experience working with customers, community stakeholders, all with the goal of making lasting connections to move an organization forward. I am a strong believer in continuing to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and in seeking new opportunities to excel. I love education, technology, developing relationships, and pursuing innovation.
I am committed to lifelong learning and personal development. I believe that optimism and positivity are contagious! I believe that every student deserves a high-quality education and that we have to do all we can to prepare them for a future where social-emotional skills, technological mastery, and bold innovative thinking are the currency of success. In today's world, students must be able to utilize innovative resources such as AI, and of utmost importance is that institutions of learning, and those that lead them, fully understand why this is non-negotiable. The future is here, and as innovation moves at quantam speed, schools, particularly in higher education, must have the support they need. We must empower the creatives out there!
I also believe that relationships come first, and that we must empower people to do their very best, while also doing all that we can to support them. Servant leadership is non-negotiable in the private and public sector today.
Digital Presence
I created the School No. 10 YouTube Channel in 2019, prior to the start of the pandemic, and continue to add to it. Our videos provided students and staff with both consistency, relevant upates, and social-emotional support.
In the News...
Coverage from Channel 7 News regarding our SELebration Day (Social Emotional Learning Day) on 12/10/21.
Channel 7 News interview with reporter and Eyewitness News co-anchor, Michelle Charlesworth, regarding relevant legislation in New Jersey on school safety.
Designated as a PTA National School of Excellence
School No. 10 designated as an Apple Distinguished School
Technology Integration Achievements
As an instructional leader, particularly in the area of technology, I worked to ensure each classroom teacher had access to a MacBook Air, Apple TV, and interactive board. Additionally, each staff member had a pair of AirPods, and along with every student in grades 1-5, each teacher also had a Logitech Crayon to use with their iPad. I also purchased several Oculus headsets, to integrate virtual reality experiences into various classrooms. And most importantly, every staff member received ongoing professional development in instructional technology and its integration, particularly in various AI models, including ChatGPT. I also utilize technology as an adjunct professor of history at Middlesex College. Continuing to teach has also allowed me to lead from not only experience, but also from current professional practice.
I was designated in April 2023 as an Apple Distinguished Educator, 1 of only 4 selected that year from the state of New Jersey.
In my second year of the principalship, in 2019, due to our team efforts, my school was designated an Apple Distinguished School. It was again awarded this designation in 2022.
I am not only an Apple teacher, I am also an Apple Learning Coach. I am the only principal in the state of New Jersey to have earned this designation.
The Teach-Lead-Innovate Podcast!
In November 2023, in a desire to further expand my own knowledge base, as well as provide value to educators, thought-leaders, and creatives everywhere, I launched the Teach-Lead-Innovate Podcast and YouTube Channel. The show is on every major podcast platform, as well as on YouTube.
Volunteer Leadership
In addition to my work as an edcuator, I also serve as a Captain in the Civil Air Patrol, the auxiliary of the United States Air Force.
I serve as the Assistant Deputy Commander of Cadets, working as the squadron's primary Aeropsace Education Officer, and Squadron Historian. Besides planning and leading activities for students, I also play a role in the operations of the squadron itself.
My experience in the Civil Air Patrol has allowed me to become more focused and disciplined, further instruct and lead young people, as well as give back to my local community, state, and nation.
My Interests
First and foremost, I am a family man. I enjoy spending time with my family, which includes my wife and children. I have four daughters who I adore. To them, I am "Daddy." To me, they are my everything.
I am an avid techie! I love all things technology, and work to master every new resource available. I have become extrememly adept at using Final Cut Pro, iMovie, ChatGPT, all social media applications, and am currently learning how to utilize the Adobe Suite of digital tools. I can use most, if not all, Micrsoft and Google applications.
I also used to weigh well over 300 pounds. I decided to change the trajectory of my life, and began eating healthy and since I could not walk or stand more than a few minutes consecutively, I began riding my bike. I am now down over 40 pounds, and regularly cycle long distances. I am healthier, completely mobile, and dedicated to bringing my best self every single day. I truly believe in the power of maintaining a positive mindset and attitude.
