About John
John is passionate about helping educators achieve their own goals so that learners of all ages can be successful.
John believes that learning should be fun. The most memorable learning happens when learners are challenged and find learning relevant. This doesn’t happen through cookie-cutter approaches, so he helps educators leverage what we know about learning to design opportunities that learners will enjoy, find success with, and remember beyond a simple test.
He has extensive experience supporting state education agencies (SEAs) and districts (LEAs) as they develop and implement key initiatives or address federal initiatives as they support education. He has developed a deep understanding of research-based practices and emerging promising practices, which he has demonstrated through publications, numerous presentations, and years of technical assistance provided at the local, state, and national levels.
John uses his experience as an instructional designer to approach projects through a solution-focused approach. This can occur through offering job-embedded coaching with coaches and teachers in their classroom. He also works with teachers and curriculum specialists to design and implement online and blended learning, performance tasks, and generate authentic learning experiences for learners of all ages. Recently he has been helping dozens of districts across the country implement student tech teams that increase the capacity of adults in their school systems while providing authentic opportunities for developing industry-standard skills students can use after school.
In his community, John is known for volunteering in support of a nonprofit arts center that offers programs for children and adults and promotes the work of local artists. His volunteer efforts were acknowledged by the NRV Leading Lights for his commitment to volunteerism, ongoing involvement, and achievement.
