About Us
About Us
About Us
We deeply care about creating a fair and nurturing educational experience for all children
We deeply care about creating a fair and nurturing educational experience for all children
We deeply care about creating a fair and nurturing educational experience for all children
Teachers Matter’s mission is to provide support to under-resourced teaching professionals with the purpose of developing increased academic excellence in students, resulting in higher graduation rates
Teachers Matter’s mission is to provide support to under-resourced teaching professionals with the purpose of developing increased academic excellence in students, resulting in higher graduation rates
Teachers Matter’s mission is to provide support to under-resourced teaching professionals with the purpose of developing increased academic excellence in students, resulting in higher graduation rates
Building equitable classrooms
Building equitable classrooms
Building equitable classrooms
We partner with schools to improve student outcomes. Our programs and coaching services are customized to increase effective instruction and support teachers. By advancing excellent teaching, we're co-creating a more equitable education system, one classroom at a time.
We partner with schools to improve student outcomes. Our programs and coaching services are customized to increase effective instruction and support teachers. By advancing excellent teaching, we're co-creating a more equitable education system, one classroom at a time.
We partner with schools to improve student outcomes. Our programs and coaching services are customized to increase effective instruction and support teachers. By advancing excellent teaching, we're co-creating a more equitable education system, one classroom at a time.
Our foundation is built on
strong values
Our foundation is built on
strong values
Our foundation is built on
strong values
Equity
Equity
Equity
Ensuring all students have equal access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances
Ensuring all students have equal access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances
Ensuring all students have equal access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances
Excellence
Excellence
Excellence
Engaging teachers in pedagogy and providing tools necessary to implement a high-quality curriculum
Engaging teachers in pedagogy and providing tools necessary to implement a high-quality curriculum
Engaging teachers in pedagogy and providing tools necessary to implement a high-quality curriculum
Collaboration
Collaboration
Collaboration
Partnering with schools and communities to create a supportive learning environment
Partnering with schools and communities to create a supportive learning environment
Partnering with schools and communities to create a supportive learning environment
Empowerment
Empowerment
Empowerment
Helping students develop the skills and confidence to succeed in school and beyond
Helping students develop the skills and confidence to succeed in school and beyond
Helping students develop the skills and confidence to succeed in school and beyond
Respect
Respect
Respect
Treating all individuals with dignity and respect
Treating all individuals with dignity and respect
Treating all individuals with dignity and respect
Innovation
Innovation
Innovation
Embracing new ideas and approaches to education to meet the evolving needs of students and communities
Embracing new ideas and approaches to education to meet the evolving needs of students and communities
Embracing new ideas and approaches to education to meet the evolving needs of students and communities
Meet the Team
Meet the Team
Dr. Aster Kifle-Thompson
Founder, President & CEO
I have been involved in the education systems both as a student and as an educator for over 20 years. Learning is the most evolving, revolving, and involving paradigm. In May 2024, I received my PhD degree in education with emphasis on Leadership, Policy, & Change in Education. It became apparent to me while working with middle school students struggling to manage their emotions, which highlighted the critical need to bridge the gap between understanding emotional regulation and applying the strategies. I had realized that teachers need to be educated on effective emotional regulation and mental well-being of their students in the classroom environment because emotional balance is crucial for students’ academic success.
I am excited to be part of Teachers Matter team and enthusiastic about assisting teachers implement classroom management, converting a chaos and challenging classroom into a calm and productive space with mutual respect and an excellent learning environment both for the educators and the learners. Teachers matter provides support to educators who play a vital role in our children’s educational system. When educators are trained and supported in their day-to-day student-to-teacher academic interactions, and when students receive support, respect and positive acknowledgement from their teachers, students show self-empowerment and improved classroom engagement.
When students achieve a higher rate of academic engagement, it will enhance students’ graduation rates which can result in individual and community positive outcomes for individual and community.
As a nation, we inspire a bright & hopeful future for our country, therefore, we are privileged to be part of the system that provides quality education to all students because students are the future leaders of the world. We advocate for educators so they in turn can shape the next generation of leaders. We, at Teachers Matter believe in the principle of Winston Churchill who said, “We Make A Living by what we get. We Make A Life by what we Give.”
Jane M. Edwards, MT(ASCP)
Board Secretary
As an instructor in different settings over the years, I have experienced the support of the greater community strengthening my efforts to provide the most dynamic learning experience for my students. I am excited to be part of Teachers Matter and I look forward to assisting teachers as they strive to enhance their students’ learning experiences.
I am a graduate of California State University, Long Beach, with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Microbiology and a Minor in Chemistry. My degree prepared me for my medical technology internship at Saint John’s Hospital and Health Center in Santa Monica, California. After completing the program and as I started my career, I joined my fellow medical technologists as an instructor in the program, teaching the students who came behind me.
My academic background in medical microbiology led to an adjunct professor position at the Community College of Southern Nevada, where I led lecture and laboratory sections in clinical chemistry, laboratory instrumentation, laboratory methods, and phlebotomy. The program built strong relationships with local hospital laboratory personnel. With our community partners aiding us in obtaining laboratory instrumentation and resources, our students received a fantastic laboratory experience even before working side-by-side with professionals in the hospital setting for their practicum hours.
At Teachers Matter, we recognize that resources are often the key in providing a rich and stimulating environment in which students will want to learn. We want to see teachers empowered and students flourishing.
Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE, MTS-FT, CNC, CNE, CDE
Board Treasurer
I have over 30 years of experience as a philanthropic consultant and educator, helping nonprofit organizations worldwide achieve their development goals. Throughout my career, I’ve raised more than $100 million including capital campaigns and have trained over 100,000 development professionals at universities, conferences, and workshops across Canada, Mexico, Egypt, Bermuda, and the U.S. I’ve also had the opportunity to lead numerous virtual training programs for a global audience, reaching another 50,000 professionals.
I’m proud to hold the Advanced Certified Fund Raising Executive (ACFRE) designation, which is shared by slightly more than 100 professionals worldwide.In addition to my consulting work, I’ve always had a passion for writing, which started when I was just ten years old. Seven decades later, I’ve published over 40 books, and writing remains one of my greatest joys.
I’m a graduate of Alvernia University, where I majored in banking and finance, theology/philosophy, and communications. I received my master’s in theological studies, with an emphasis on Franciscan theology from the Franciscan School of Theology at University of San Diego. I’m also a Master Teacher, having completed AFP’s Faculty Training Academy. Over the years, I’ve had the honor of serving on the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Board and the Professional Advancement Division. I’ve been recognized with several awards, including the Barbara Marion Award for Outstanding Service to AFP and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Las Vegas AFP chapter. Throughout my career, I’ve worked to leave a lasting impact in the fundraising profession and have been fortunate to mentor and support countless individuals and organizations along the way.
Dr. Aster Kifle-Thompson
Founder, President & CEO
I have been involved in the education systems both as a student and as an educator for over 20 years. Learning is the most evolving, revolving, and involving paradigm. In May 2024, I received my PhD degree in education with emphasis on Leadership, Policy, & Change in Education. It became apparent to me while working with middle school students struggling to manage their emotions, which highlighted the critical need to bridge the gap between understanding emotional regulation and applying the strategies. I had realized that teachers need to be educated on effective emotional regulation and mental well-being of their students in the classroom environment because emotional balance is crucial for students’ academic success.
I am excited to be part of Teachers Matter team and enthusiastic about assisting teachers implement classroom management, converting a chaos and challenging classroom into a calm and productive space with mutual respect and an excellent learning environment both for the educators and the learners. Teachers matter provides support to educators who play a vital role in our children’s educational system. When educators are trained and supported in their day-to-day student-to-teacher academic interactions, and when students receive support, respect and positive acknowledgement from their teachers, students show self-empowerment and improved classroom engagement.
When students achieve a higher rate of academic engagement, it will enhance students’ graduation rates which can result in individual and community positive outcomes for individual and community.
As a nation, we inspire a bright & hopeful future for our country, therefore, we are privileged to be part of the system that provides quality education to all students because students are the future leaders of the world. We advocate for educators so they in turn can shape the next generation of leaders. We, at Teachers Matter believe in the principle of Winston Churchill who said, “We Make A Living by what we get. We Make A Life by what we Give.”
Jane M. Edwards, MT(ASCP)
Board Secretary
As an instructor in different settings over the years, I have experienced the support of the greater community strengthening my efforts to provide the most dynamic learning experience for my students. I am excited to be part of Teachers Matter and I look forward to assisting teachers as they strive to enhance their students’ learning experiences.
I am a graduate of California State University, Long Beach, with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Microbiology and a Minor in Chemistry. My degree prepared me for my medical technology internship at Saint John’s Hospital and Health Center in Santa Monica, California. After completing the program and as I started my career, I joined my fellow medical technologists as an instructor in the program, teaching the students who came behind me.
My academic background in medical microbiology led to an adjunct professor position at the Community College of Southern Nevada, where I led lecture and laboratory sections in clinical chemistry, laboratory instrumentation, laboratory methods, and phlebotomy. The program built strong relationships with local hospital laboratory personnel. With our community partners aiding us in obtaining laboratory instrumentation and resources, our students received a fantastic laboratory experience even before working side-by-side with professionals in the hospital setting for their practicum hours.
At Teachers Matter, we recognize that resources are often the key in providing a rich and stimulating environment in which students will want to learn. We want to see teachers empowered and students flourishing.
Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE, MTS-FT, CNC, CNE, CDE
Board Treasurer
I have over 30 years of experience as a philanthropic consultant and educator, helping nonprofit organizations worldwide achieve their development goals. Throughout my career, I’ve raised more than $100 million including capital campaigns and have trained over 100,000 development professionals at universities, conferences, and workshops across Canada, Mexico, Egypt, Bermuda, and the U.S. I’ve also had the opportunity to lead numerous virtual training programs for a global audience, reaching another 50,000 professionals.
I’m proud to hold the Advanced Certified Fund Raising Executive (ACFRE) designation, which is shared by slightly more than 100 professionals worldwide.In addition to my consulting work, I’ve always had a passion for writing, which started when I was just ten years old. Seven decades later, I’ve published over 40 books, and writing remains one of my greatest joys.
I’m a graduate of Alvernia University, where I majored in banking and finance, theology/philosophy, and communications. I received my master’s in theological studies, with an emphasis on Franciscan theology from the Franciscan School of Theology at University of San Diego. I’m also a Master Teacher, having completed AFP’s Faculty Training Academy. Over the years, I’ve had the honor of serving on the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Board and the Professional Advancement Division. I’ve been recognized with several awards, including the Barbara Marion Award for Outstanding Service to AFP and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Las Vegas AFP chapter. Throughout my career, I’ve worked to leave a lasting impact in the fundraising profession and have been fortunate to mentor and support countless individuals and organizations along the way.
Dr. Aster Kifle-Thompson
Founder, President & CEO
I have been involved in the education systems both as a student and as an educator for over 20 years. Learning is the most evolving, revolving, and involving paradigm. In May 2024, I received my PhD degree in education with emphasis on Leadership, Policy, & Change in Education. It became apparent to me while working with middle school students struggling to manage their emotions, which highlighted the critical need to bridge the gap between understanding emotional regulation and applying the strategies. I had realized that teachers need to be educated on effective emotional regulation and mental well-being of their students in the classroom environment because emotional balance is crucial for students’ academic success.
I am excited to be part of Teachers Matter team and enthusiastic about assisting teachers implement classroom management, converting a chaos and challenging classroom into a calm and productive space with mutual respect and an excellent learning environment both for the educators and the learners. Teachers matter provides support to educators who play a vital role in our children’s educational system. When educators are trained and supported in their day-to-day student-to-teacher academic interactions, and when students receive support, respect and positive acknowledgement from their teachers, students show self-empowerment and improved classroom engagement.
When students achieve a higher rate of academic engagement, it will enhance students’ graduation rates which can result in individual and community positive outcomes for individual and community.
As a nation, we inspire a bright & hopeful future for our country, therefore, we are privileged to be part of the system that provides quality education to all students because students are the future leaders of the world. We advocate for educators so they in turn can shape the next generation of leaders. We, at Teachers Matter believe in the principle of Winston Churchill who said, “We Make A Living by what we get. We Make A Life by what we Give.”
Jane M. Edwards, MT(ASCP)
Board Secretary
As an instructor in different settings over the years, I have experienced the support of the greater community strengthening my efforts to provide the most dynamic learning experience for my students. I am excited to be part of Teachers Matter and I look forward to assisting teachers as they strive to enhance their students’ learning experiences.
I am a graduate of California State University, Long Beach, with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Microbiology and a Minor in Chemistry. My degree prepared me for my medical technology internship at Saint John’s Hospital and Health Center in Santa Monica, California. After completing the program and as I started my career, I joined my fellow medical technologists as an instructor in the program, teaching the students who came behind me.
My academic background in medical microbiology led to an adjunct professor position at the Community College of Southern Nevada, where I led lecture and laboratory sections in clinical chemistry, laboratory instrumentation, laboratory methods, and phlebotomy. The program built strong relationships with local hospital laboratory personnel. With our community partners aiding us in obtaining laboratory instrumentation and resources, our students received a fantastic laboratory experience even before working side-by-side with professionals in the hospital setting for their practicum hours.
At Teachers Matter, we recognize that resources are often the key in providing a rich and stimulating environment in which students will want to learn. We want to see teachers empowered and students flourishing.
Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE, MTS-FT, CNC, CNE, CDE
Board Treasurer
I have over 30 years of experience as a philanthropic consultant and educator, helping nonprofit organizations worldwide achieve their development goals. Throughout my career, I’ve raised more than $100 million including capital campaigns and have trained over 100,000 development professionals at universities, conferences, and workshops across Canada, Mexico, Egypt, Bermuda, and the U.S. I’ve also had the opportunity to lead numerous virtual training programs for a global audience, reaching another 50,000 professionals.
I’m proud to hold the Advanced Certified Fund Raising Executive (ACFRE) designation, which is shared by slightly more than 100 professionals worldwide.In addition to my consulting work, I’ve always had a passion for writing, which started when I was just ten years old. Seven decades later, I’ve published over 40 books, and writing remains one of my greatest joys. I’m a graduate of Alvernia University, where I majored in banking and finance, theology/philosophy, and communications. I’m also a Master Teacher, having completed AFP’s Faculty Training Academy. Over the years, I’ve had the honor of serving on the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Board and the Professional Advancement Division. I’ve been recognized with several awards, including the Barbara Marion Award for Outstanding Service to AFP and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Las Vegas AFP chapter. Throughout my career, I’ve worked to leave a lasting impact in the fundraising profession and have been fortunate to mentor and support countless individuals and organizations along the way.
Volunteer for us
See the results in our schools
Volunteer for us
See the results in our schools
Volunteer for us
See the results in our schools
Whether you are a teacher wanting to make an impact in our community schools or a volunteer looking to support our teachers and students, we would love to hear from you. Your involvement is critical for us to thrive and grow.
Whether you are a teacher wanting to make an impact in our community schools or a volunteer looking to support our teachers and students, we would love to hear from you. Your involvement is critical for us to thrive and grow.
Whether you are a teacher wanting to make an impact in our community schools or a volunteer looking to support our teachers and students, we would love to hear from you. Your involvement is critical for us to thrive and grow.
Teacher Support
Teacher Support
Assist teachers at school events, provide informal/formal professional learning opportunities or workshops, support teacher appreciation week
Assist teachers at school events, provide informal/formal professional learning opportunities or workshops, support teacher appreciation week
Student Support
Student Support
Support students at school events, mentor/tutor students, coordinate/lead collection drives for school supplies, organize fundraisers
Support students at school events, mentor/tutor students, coordinate/lead collection drives for school supplies, organize fundraisers
Volunteer Now
Volunteer Now
Volunteer Now
Volunteer Now
Teachers Matter is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
(EIN: 99-4263562)
Sign up for our newsletter for a quarterly update of programs, successes, and opportunities. We will never sell your information.
Teachers Matter @2024. All rights reserved.
Teachers Matter is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
(EIN: 99-4263562)
Sign up for our newsletter for a quarterly update of programs, successes, and opportunities. We will never sell your information.
Teachers Matter @2024. All rights reserved.
Teachers Matter is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
(EIN: 99-4263562)
Sign up for our newsletter for a quarterly update of programs, successes, and opportunities. We will never sell your information.
Teachers Matter @2024. All rights reserved.
Teachers Matter is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
(EIN: 99-4263562)
Sign up for our newsletter for a quarterly update of programs, successes, and opportunities. We will never sell your information.
Teachers Matter @2024. All rights reserved.