Cindy Zimmermann

Milestones

My road in life took a while to figure out.

Always liked kids but didn't like school. Liked to read, but wasn't very disciplined.

Worked in family Oriental Rug business.

Went to college for 3 years, got married, and dropped out.

Had 4 kids within 6 years. Opened a daycare / preschool to stay with my own kids.

Went back to school, began to teach English in suburbs. Moved to teach in Chicago for at-risk kids.

Experimented with instruction. Found incredible success. Continued education.

Founded an urban small school with Gates money. Incredibly successful.

Took a district lead role in a charter alternative school system.

High School

Bachelor
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

Graduate
Education, General
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

Curriculum & Instruction Lead

I assist alternative school principals and teachers in developing strong schools.

I do research, attend district meetings, consultancy meetings, preparing and providing professional development.

Here's the first step for college students

Begin as a teacher and understand that ALL students can learn at high levels. Be prepared for hard work and long hours.