Beginning his teaching career through Teach for America, Joel has spent the past four years teaching English to high school students primarily in low-income communities. During that time, he pushed his students to achieve remarkable results on their state tests. Currently, Joel's work has broadened to include the development of the teachers in his building and the progress of their students. Working as a leader in his school, Joel is responsible for evaluating teacher lessons, observing their classrooms and coaching them in best practices. He further helps to develop his colleagues by leading weekly professional development for the staff. Joel earned his undergraduate degree in English and Political Science from Olivet Nazarene University and his Masters degree in teaching from Marian University.