Riley Gartland creates a safe space for learning while setting high standards for her students at Cinnaminson High School, where she teaches 9th, 11th and 12th grade math. In the six years she has been in education, she has already made great strides by taking the accelerated calculus program from one class of 20 to two full sections. Gartland uses real-life applications of math to bring her classroom to life. Students create board games, make Sierpinksi triangles and use current math technology like Desmos to create art. Gartland creates individualized achievement plans for each student by pre-testing to determine their current level, and incorporates one-on-one meetings to provide tailored support. These efforts have led to notable achievement growth among students of all abilities, with many consistently outperforming the county and state.
A trusted role model outside her classes, Gartland’s classroom is often full of students at lunch. She serves as the school National Honor Society advisor, planning the induction ceremony and reception, as well as chaperoning the prom and a senior class trip to Disney World. She serves as the freshman class advisor, mentoring students during all four years at Cinnaminson, plans fundraisers, spirit week and the school blood drive. Gartland’s leadership extends beyond her classroom to her collaboration with the math department. She shares her data analysis resources with colleagues and helps develop lessons for students to see strong ties to learning standards and consistency across classes.
Active in professional development and committed to a positive school environment, Gartland leads the Sunshine Committee, which aims to improve teacher morale and reward colleagues’ commitment to the school. Teachers are offered dress-down days for participating in school activities with prize-filled scavenger hunts held before long breaks. During district professional development, Gartland has been instrumental in training colleagues on new technology and resources, including helping colleagues more seamlessly implement remote instruction during the pandemic.
Gartland received a Bachelor of Arts in education and mathematics from Rowan University in 2016.
Press release: Cinnaminson High School Teacher Surprised with National $25,000 Milken Educator Award
