Ridge Teacher: What Has Changed The Most In Mahwah Schools

Each week Patch sits down with individuals who contribute to the high standards of education in Mahwah, and asks them a few questions to get to know them better.

This week Patch talks to Science teacher, Cortney Glaubach, about the biggest changes at school over the last few years.

How long have you been a teacher in Mahwah? What classes do you teach?

CG: “This is my 11^th year as a teacher in Mahwah.  I teach four classes of seventh grade Life Science and one class of sixth grade Earth Science.”

How is 6th grade science different from the 7th grade program?

CG: “In sixth grade science, the students learn Earth Science where they explore Earth, its systems, and its relationship to the universe. On the other hand, in seventh grade the students learn Life Science, which encompasses all the living organisms on earth.” 

How do you engage your students to keep them interested and focused?

CG: “In order to keep my students engaged and focused I choose to vary my teaching styles and modalities. I encourage differentiation and “choice” in order to allow students to explore their creativity and to find the ways that work best for them. This is a pivotal year of growth and development and I urge my students to find out what works for them and what doesn’t. In doing so, they have many options of “how” to accomplish various tasks, as long as they all end up in the same place. I believe this freedom keeps them engaged and focused.”

What is the biggest change you've seen over the years at the school? 

CG: “The biggest change I have seen over the years at Ramapo Ridge are the advancements and uses of technology. Our staff has taken great strides in learning new and innovative ways of not only teaching students through the use of technology, but ways of allowing students to express their knowledge using technology as well. It is a true testament to the open-mindedness of the entire staff as well as the Mahwah Schools Foundation for providing us with so many of these technological opportunities.”

Do you find technology has taken away or enhanced learning?

CG: “I find that technology has enhanced learning in many facets.  It allows students to express themselves in other ways and it encourages practice and readiness for what’s ahead of them in the 21^st century.”

What's one thing people may not know about you?

CG: “I embrace challenges and trying something new.  I have been skydiving, completed a marathon, and competed in the Tough Mudder.  If it wasn’t apparent, I am an exercise fanatic who enjoys soccer, yoga and skiing--yet I still love candy and french fries!”