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Mike Gwaltney
Educator, Online / Distance Learning & Project-Based Learning Expert, Consultant, Speaker, Writer.
Professional Background
With over 30 years of dedicated experience in education, Mike Gwaltney has made a significant impact in various roles, including coach, teacher, technologist, department head, principal, and Assistant Head of School. His journey has led him to become a thought leader in the field of online and distance learning within American private-independent schools. Currently, Mike serves as the Director of Online Learning and a consultant at Independent School Management (ISM), where he is deeply engaged in academic programming across various divisions.
In his current role, Mike collaborates with schools on a range of vital academic areas. This includes leadership and management strategies, strategic academic planning, shaping faculty culture, enhancing the student experience, implementing effective faculty evaluations, curriculum design, and integrating academic technology and online learning initiatives. His diverse expertise makes him a sought-after consultant who empowers educational institutions to thrive in today’s dynamic learning environment.
Education and Achievements
Mike’s educational background is firmly rooted in the state of California, where he earned both his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science degrees from California State University, Fullerton. He also studied Teaching at National University, providing him with a strong foundation in pedagogical techniques and educational best practices. His educational journey began at Sunny Hills High School, a stepping stone that paved the way for his impressive career in academia.
In the early 2000s, Mike began pioneering online discussions in his classes, marking the beginning of his innovative approach to blended learning. His commitment to educational reform became more pronounced when he became an inaugural teacher at the Online School for Girls from 2010 to 2014, where he taught students and provided professional development courses for other educators.
In 2011, Mike played an instrumental role in the first-ever accreditation of a fully online, student-centered school, a significant milestone that illustrates his influence on educational standards. Between 2014 and 2017, he took the lead in developing an award-winning blended/online program in Portland, Oregon, showcasing his ability to create engaging, effective, and transformative learning experiences.
Mike’s impressive accolades include recognition as “Most Inspirational Teacher” by the Mayor of Los Angeles on six occasions, a testament to his impact on both students and the community. He is also featured in several prominent publications, such as "Deeper Learning: Beyond 21st Century Skills" (2015) and "Thinking Through Project-Based Learning: Guiding Deeper Inquiry" (2013), highlighting his expertise in Project-Based Learning (PBL).
Notable Contributions and Achievements
One of Mike Gwaltney’s most remarkable achievements occurred during the 2014-2015 academic year when his students made national headlines for their advocacy efforts that helped pass a significant bill through the Oregon state legislature. This impressive endeavor not only demonstrates his commitment to PBL but also his dedication to fostering civic engagement among students.
As a recognized expert in Project-Based Learning, Mike has been a featured speaker at various national and regional conferences, sharing his insights on blended and online learning at prestigious events such as the ISTE and NAIS conferences. His presentations aim to inspire educators to embrace innovative instructional strategies that promote deep and meaningful learning experiences.
Consultation and Leadership in Online Learning
Mike’s role as the Director of Online Learning at ISM further solidifies his position as a leading figure in online education. By consulting schools on best practices and integration of technology in academic programs, he is helping shape the future of education. His expertise extends to teaching pedagogies that emphasize collaboration and high-touch learning, which are essential in the age of technology-driven education.
His work has garnered attention from various media outlets, including National Public Radio's "The World," Edutopia, and KQED's Mindshift blog, where he shares his insights on the evolution of learning environments and the importance of constructing knowledge through innovative approaches.
Community Engagement and Continued Influence
As Mike continues to share his passion for education and online learning, he remains a dedicated advocate for student-centered learning experiences. His vision for education transcends traditional methods, focusing on creating learning environments that are adaptable, engaging, and inclusive.
In summary, Mike Gwaltney’s remarkable background in education has established him as a pivotal figure in the realms of online and blended learning. His ability to inspire educators, engage students, and innovate academic programming makes him a valuable asset to the academic community. His ongoing contributions to online learning technologies and Project-Based Learning ensure that he remains at the forefront of educational advancement, empowering the next generation of learners and educators alike.
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Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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