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Annie Gladfelter
Out-of-School Time Director, Trainer and Consultant
Professional Background
Annie Gladfelter is a dedicated educator who brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to enhancing student engagement through innovative after-school programming. Serving as the Community Engagement Director for a local nonprofit, Annie leads efforts to integrate community resources with educational practices, providing enriching experiences that foster not only learning but also vital connections between families and schools. Her dynamic role positions her at the forefront of community education initiatives, where she champions culturally relevant practices that empower students and families alike.
Throughout her career, Annie has demonstrated her expertise in curriculum design and implementation, focusing on Out-of-School Time (OST) program improvement. With an emphasis on comprehensive professional development, she aims to equip educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to facilitate impactful after-school programming. Annie’s experience in diverse educational settings, including her roles as Curriculum Trainer and Coach at Creative Minds Out of School and as an Educator at Tobin Montessori, has solidified her understanding of best practices within educational frameworks.
Annie’s background also includes significant contributions to the Cambridge Public Schools as a Sheltered English Immersion Educator, where she developed strategies to engage English language learners while providing them with a supportive learning environment. Her hands-on approach as a Student Teacher in both Cambridge and Boston Public Schools further showcases her ability to adapt curricula to meet the needs of diverse student populations effectively.
Education and Achievements
Annie’s educational journey is impressive and reflective of her commitment to the field of education. She earned her Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Out-of-School Time Program Development and Improvement from the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she refined her skills in creating effective programming that enhances student engagement and motivation. This advanced degree complements her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theater and Elementary Education from Wheelock College, equipping her with a unique blend of pedagogical strategies and creative methods to engage students.
Her foundation in education was established during her formative years at Cambridge Rindge and Latin, which laid the groundwork for her passion for teaching and community service. Throughout her studies and professional experiences, Annie has harnessed her love for the arts and education to create engaging learning environments.
Notable Achievements
Annie has made significant strides in her field, notably through her leadership at the Belmont After School Enrichment Collaborative. Here, she has implemented innovative programming that not only enhances student engagement but also fosters a strong sense of community. By actively seeking partnerships and resources, Annie ensures that the programs are culturally relevant and accessible to all families, which is a core tenet of her educational philosophy.
Additionally, her previous role as a Curriculum Trainer and Coach enabled her to mentor fellow educators, further enhancing her contribution to educational improvement in her community. Her work at Creative Minds Out of School has been recognized for its effectiveness in connecting critical academic skills with creative and engaging after-school programs, showcasing her passion for holistic student development.
Annie’s drive for sustainable educational improvement is evident in her ongoing professional development initiatives aimed at expanding the capacity of educators within the community. By advocating for comprehensive training and support, she has successfully increased the quality and effectiveness of after-school programming, thereby positively impacting thousands of students and their families.
Annie Gladfelter stands out not only for her extensive educational background and leadership abilities but also for her genuine passion for nurturing young minds and fostering community connections. Her strategic vision for after-school programming and her unwavering commitment to culturally responsive education make her an asset to the educational landscape. As she continues to innovate and inspire, Annie remains steadfastly focused on creating meaningful learning experiences that empower students and elevate their potential.
