Kristin Floreno is a new Blended Learning Specialist at Brenda Scott Academy in Detroit. The turnaround program, in cooperation with Matchbook Learning, was launched this year to move this school from the bottom 5% in the state of Michigan to the top 20%. Brenda Scott’s new Principal has recruited a dynamic team of teachers and administrators to lead this campaign, and the Blended Learning Specialists from Matchbook provide professional coaching and support in each classroom to maximize academic quality and effectiveness. Below is an interview with Kristin that provides some perspective on this role.

How would you describe the first day of school at Brenda Scott?
The first day of school was very productive! We were able to do what we had hoped to do—handling a large volume of student enrollment, helping the parents through a streamlined process (that typically is very chaotic), and giving a welcoming feel. Parents sat with us during the teacher introductions, which were structured like a basketball pregame production.  The kids were really into it. We were able to maximize the instructional time and start introducing the kids to the new Brenda Scott way of doing things.  It was a super exciting day!  This school is full of great students.

What's the big deal about blended learning? Is it really that difficult?
From the teacher’s perspective, it gives them the ability to be student-centered and develop a personalized learning plan. We can now help them grow at their pace and play to their strengths. What makes it great is using the technology for what its good for, while still emphasizing the value of well-designed instruction. Hands-on projects are more feasible, as well as dialogue and deeper learning. I don’t believe it’s really that difficult for teachers once they see the capabilities and learn how to integrate it into their classroom. It’s a different flow that requires adaptation, but the blended learning platform should be seen as another tool in their tool belt.

Is turning this school around important for this neighborhood? What difference will it make?
Turning this school around is critical for this neighborhood.  The community support and involvement is impressive.  Very unusual. EAA has implemented a structure and plan that will work, and give these parents the opportunity to be connected and have ownership. Everyone is new, but the welcoming spirit will help us build strong relationships. The expectations are high, and once the technology platform is launched in a few weeks they will really see a difference.  This school is really going to shine.

What exactly does a Blended Learning Specialist do?
These first few days have been different because of the start-up mode, but we’re there to assist in the implementation of the blended learning model.  We help the teachers with adjusting to the technology, classroom management, data evaluation, instructional adjustments, and lesson planning. Building personalized learning plans is fully possible with this platform, freeing the teachers up to be academic leaders. We’re responsible for the successful implementation with a balance between on-line learning and live instruction. It’s a great challenge!

What most attracted you to this position?
I think what most attracted me to Matchbook was working with turnaround schools. I enjoy a challenge, something new. Matchbook and this school district have combined to give me a whole new opportunity. Change in education over the last decade has been similar to an ocean—lots of turbulence at the top but not much going on at the bottom. This school has undergone a complete makeover with genuine change throughout, creating long-lasting results that very few turnaround efforts have accomplished. That’s what really attracted me.

How would you describe your most unique accomplishment to date?
My most unique accomplishment so far was when I was working as a Michigan summer youth coordinator. I served as a supervisor, participating in the design of the program that employed hundreds of students. We taught them employability skills such as how to write a resume, to participate in an interview, preparing for the interview, etc. These were important life skills that helped them really grow up.

Why should other unusually gifted educators consider the challenge of working in a turnaround school?
They should because these kids need us. Working with a company like Matchbook Learning gives you the chance to overcome the obstacles that typically impede the turnaround. All of these kids have the potential to learn and we have to give them that chance. So many others have failed them. This is a chance to let your talents shine and make a huge difference. We can work together in a well-managed district to build a program in which these students can achieve at a high level and be prepared for college.

What are your expectations at the end of this school year? How will you be different?
I think I’m going to be very different. Already I’m able to see my talents in a new way, solving problems and building relationships. I can help teachers in a practical way, building their skills and my own. I’m going to be an even better educator and leader. This school will compare well with other schools by next summer, and the major difference will be the high quality leadership