LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education

After the remote learning experience of 2020 and 2021, and the beginning of students returning to “in person” learning, people are wondering what the “new normal” will look like for education.  This podcast focuses the on two educational leaders from the Education Research and Development Institute (ERDI), Jennifer Ferrari and Kimberly Markus.   Their robust discussion is focused on the state of the education industry.  Ferrari and Markus discuss the work  ERDI is doing to bring industry partners and educators together, provide insight into the research on the horizon, and share their personal experiences in the educational arena.

About our guests:

Kimberly Harrington Markus.

Kimberley Harrington Markus, former New Jersey Commissioner of Education and recently retired from 30 years in public education, currently serves as the Chief Education Officer for the Education Research and Development Institute.

Kimberley has served as a classroom teacher, school and district level leader, and state and national advocate and speaker. She is known for her work advocating for students and serving the educators, parents, and community members supporting them. She believes the student voice must be at the forefront of every conversation in order for students to grow academically, emotionally, and physically to reach their maximum potential.

Kimberley has been recognized with many awards including: the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Lifetime Contribution to Arts Education, 2017 EdTech Hero Award, Boyer Outstanding Educator Award, and the College of New Jersey Advocacy Award. She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education from Gordon College and a Master of Arts in Education Leadership from The College of New Jersey. She is currently a doctoral candidate at Saint Peter’s University.

Jennifer Ferrari.

Jennifer Ferrari is a learning leader focused on ensuring bright futures for all students through research and development efforts that promote high quality public education. She is committed to supporting deep, meaningful learning for students and adults alike.  As the CEO and President of the Education Research and Development Institute,  she  supports professional growth and development through collaborative learning and feedback. Jennifer specializes in strategic planning, leadership development, dual language education, personalized learning, and curriculum, and creating conditions for inspired design with ed leaders and innovators.