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Learn why adult learners choose Rider to pursue their teacher certification

Rider’s post-baccalaureate teacher certification program empowers adults to turn their passion for education into meaningful classroom careers. Designed for flexibility, the program supports those balancing work, family and study while earning their initial New Jersey teaching certification. Many students choose to continue on to earn a master’s of arts in teaching. Hear from graduates and current students who’ve built rewarding teaching careers with Rider’s guidance and support.

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Kierstyn Castillo, Class of 2025

2025 Executive Women of New Jersey (EWNJ) Graduate Merit Award recipient
“When I started Rider’s MAT/PBTC program, I worried about how I could balance everything as a paraprofessional already working full time. Rider made it possible for me to stay in my job while completing the program, and I found the support I needed to keep going. The long commutes, late nights, and multiple jobs were not easy, but receiving the Graduate Merit Award reminded me that the hard work has been worth it. If you are passionate about teaching, Rider can help you get there too.”

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Shelly Falk-Voss ’24

Kindergarten teacher, Kisthardt Elementary School, Hamilton Board of Education
“After years as a stay-at-home mom and working as a paraprofessional, I decided to pursue my dream of having a classroom of my own. Rider’s M.A.T./PBTC program made that possible with flexible scheduling and supportive professors who guided me every step of the way. Although I worried I might be ‘too old’ to start this journey, Rider showed me it’s never too late. Before I even graduated, I was offered a teaching position, and today I am living my dream as a kindergarten teacher.”

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Chad Thompson ’23

High school math teacher, Burlington County Institute of Technology
“Returning to Rider for the MAT/PBTC program exceeded my expectations. From day one, my professors combined deep expertise with a genuine investment in my success. Their support, along with the program’s flexible evening and part-time options, allowed me to balance work and family while pursuing my teaching goals. They pushed me to think critically about what it means to teach. By the end, I didn’t just earn certification. I left with a clear teaching philosophy, practical strategies I use every day, and the confidence to make a real impact in the classroom.”

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Amy Fisher ’23

7th grade science teacher, Grice Middle School, Hamilton, NJ
“What stands out about Rider’s MAT/PBTC program was the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. Learning alongside educators from different backgrounds created a rich experience, and I gained so much from my peers. I was also impressed by how involved our professors were, whether advising on classes or brainstorming lesson plans. We were encouraged to develop our own teaching style, which made the program both personal and meaningful. Being able to work full time while completing the program was an added bonus. Overall, I had a great experience at Rider.”

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Ayoni “Yoni” Bachrach ’23

ESL educator, Manville School District
“Rider’s MAT/PBTC program truly prepared me to be the best ESL educator I can be. Earning my Master of Arts in Teaching, along with K–6, ESL and bilingual certifications, gave me the skills to support my students and their families effectively. The coursework was clear and manageable, the professors went above and beyond, and the program’s flexibility made it possible to balance work, family and learning.”