Meri Petkovska
Pompton Lakes,USA
Summary
Educational leader with expertise in curriculum development and data analysis, enhancing student achievement through strategic instructional leadership. Demonstrated success in mentoring educators, fostering collaboration, and improving language proficiency outcomes.
Overview
1
1
Certification
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Supervisor of Bilingual Education, ESL and World Languages PreK-12
Bound Brook Public Schools
Bound Brook, USA
08.2025 - Current
- Directly manage the PreK-12 Bilingual Education, ESL, and World Languages departments, providing instructional leadership, program development, and compliance oversight.
- Spearhead curriculum and program development by maintaining and updating curriculum maps in Atlas, selecting instructional materials, overseeing summer curriculum writing projects, and ensuring alignment with NJSLS, WIDA Standards, and district priorities.
- Led curriculum writing teams for English Language Arts, Spanish Language Arts, ESL, and World Languages (PreK-12); trained teachers in curriculum design, standards alignment, assessment development, and Atlas curriculum mapping to enhance instructional quality.
- Lead the recruitment, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and evaluation of certified instructional staff, including bilingual, ESL, world language teachers, and instructional coaches.
- Develop and implement onboarding and mentoring programs for new teachers and instructional coaches, ensuring successful integration into district initiatives, instructional frameworks, and assessment practices.
- Train and supervise instructional coaches in effective coaching cycles, data analysis, co-teaching models, professional development facilitation, and instructional support for multilingual learners.
- Facilitate leadership development opportunities for teacher leaders, instructional coaches, and department representatives to build instructional capacity throughout the district.
- Lead data-driven assessment and instructional planning through the analysis of i-Ready, IXL, LinkIt, ACCESS, NJSLA, AP, STAMP, and local assessment data to monitor student achievement, identify trends, develop action plans, and improve instructional outcomes.
- Coordinated district implementation of WIDA ACCESS for ELLs, WIDA Screener, WIDA MODEL, NJSLA testing accommodations for multilingual learners, AP Spanish Language and Culture examinations, STAMP language proficiency assessments, and World Language placement testing, ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements and maintaining testing integrity.
- Direct and manage the district Seal of Biliteracy program, including student identification, assessment coordination, eligibility verification, state reporting, family communication, and planning and facilitating the annual Seal of Biliteracy Recognition Ceremony.
- Coordinate AP testing, language proficiency testing, and multilingual learner assessment programs to ensure equitable access and accurate placement of students.
- Developed and implemented multilingual learner placement procedures and course pathways for ESL, bilingual education, Spanish Heritage, Spanish Language Arts, and World Languages programs to support student success and appropriate placement.
- Provide formal supervision and staff development by conducting classroom observations, walkthroughs, and evaluations aligned to the Stronge Teacher Effectiveness System while mentoring new and veteran educators.
- Establish coaching cycles and provide instructional coaching to support the implementation of research-based practices, co-teaching models, language development strategies, differentiated instruction, and culturally responsive teaching practices.
- Design and facilitate professional development for teachers and administrators on SIOP, scaffolding for multilingual learners, curriculum implementation, assessment literacy, co-teaching, AI integration, and culturally responsive instructional practices.
- Plan and facilitate department-wide professional development aligned to district goals, school improvement initiatives, and multilingual learner achievement.
- Direct the scheduling, curriculum, staffing, and implementation of K-12 summer school programs designed to support multilingual learners and accelerate language acquisition.
- Manage departmental budgets, grant-funded initiatives, instructional materials, assessment resources, and inventory across multiple schools and grade levels.
- Oversee the selection, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of instructional materials, digital platforms, and assessment tools for bilingual, ESL, and world language programs.
- Collaborate with district administrators, principals, counselors, teachers, families, and community partners to ensure program alignment, student success, and effective communication across all stakeholder groups.
- Develop and facilitate parent engagement initiatives, informational sessions, and workshops focused on multilingual learner success, biliteracy, graduation requirements, and college and career readiness.
- Participate in district leadership teams and strategic planning initiatives focused on equity, multilingual learner achievement, biliteracy, college and career readiness, and continuous school improvement.
- Analyze district, school, and program-level data to evaluate program effectiveness, identify trends, and recommend strategic improvements to increase student achievement and language proficiency outcomes.
- Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations related to multilingual learners, bilingual education, ESL services, language access, and assessment requirements.
- Represent the district at county, regional, and state meetings related to multilingual learner education, bilingual education, world languages, and educational leadership.
Bilingual/ESL Instructional Coach (Grades 7-12)
Bound Brook Public Schools
Bound Brook, USA
09.2024 - 07.2025
- Spearheaded ESL curriculum development and revision, ensuring alignment with NJSLS, WIDA Standards, and evidence-based instructional practices.
- Delivered SIOP professional development and coaching to enhance instructional practices and increase academic language development for multilingual learners.
- Improved ACCESS outcomes through data-driven coaching cycles, collaborative planning, and targeted instructional support for teachers.
- Facilitated professional development sessions for over 100 teachers and administrators on scaffolding, language objectives, co-teaching, assessment practices, and strategies for multilingual learners.
- Provided individualized instructional coaching, classroom observations, feedback, modeling, and co-teaching support to improve teacher effectiveness and student achievement.
- Designed and implemented coaching cycles focused on lesson planning, student engagement, differentiated instruction, and language development strategies.
- Supported teachers in integrating language objectives and academic vocabulary development across content areas, including ELA, mathematics, science, and social studies.
- Developed and delivered district-wide professional learning on SIOP, WIDA Can Do Descriptors, assessment literacy, and culturally responsive instructional practices.
- Analyzed ACCESS, LinkIt, i-Ready, classroom assessment, and benchmark data to identify trends, guide instructional decision-making, and develop intervention plans.
- Collaborated with principals, department supervisors, and teachers to support school improvement initiatives and increase achievement for multilingual learners.
- Facilitated professional learning communities (PLCs) and teacher study groups focused on effective instructional strategies and multilingual learner success.
- Supported the implementation and analysis of WIDA ACCESS, WIDA Screener, and local assessment data to inform instruction and program planning.
- Collaborated with teachers to design standards-aligned lessons, common assessments, intervention plans, and instructional resources.
- Partnered with special education, bilingual, ESL, and content-area teachers to strengthen co-teaching models and improve services for multilingual learners with disabilities.
- Mentored new teachers and provided ongoing support in classroom management, lesson design, differentiation, and effective instructional practices.
ESL Teacher & Head Teacher of ESL (Grades 7-12)
Bound Brook Public Schools
Bound Brook, USA
10.2023 - 06.2024
- Led the ESL team as Head Teacher, providing leadership, mentorship, and support to ESL staff while facilitating communication between teachers and administration.
- Authored and developed the ESL and Integrated Language Arts (ILA) curricula for grades 7-12, including curriculum maps, pacing guides, unit plans, common assessments, and instructional resources aligned to NJSLS and WIDA Standards.
- Led the design and implementation of a comprehensive Integrated Language Arts (ILA) program for multilingual learners, integrating English language development with grade-level literacy instruction.
- Led the revision and enhancement of high school ESL curriculum, ensuring alignment with NJSLS, WIDA English Language Development Standards, and district instructional goals.
- Collaborated with English language arts teachers and department leaders to adapt grades 7-12 ELA curricula and assessments, enhancing accessibility and promoting academic success for multilingual learners.
- Developed language scaffolds, differentiated instructional resources, assessment accommodations, and instructional supports to increase multilingual learners' access to grade-level content.
- Facilitated cross-department collaboration between ESL and ELA teachers to align instructional practices, strengthen literacy development, and improve outcomes for multilingual learners.
- Created common assessments, writing rubrics, and progress-monitoring tools to monitor student growth in language proficiency and academic literacy.
- Increased student ACCESS scores by an average of 1.0 proficiency level annually through targeted language instruction, data analysis, and evidence-based teaching practices.
- Analyzed ACCESS, classroom, and benchmark assessment data to identify instructional priorities and develop targeted interventions for multilingual learners.
- Supported the implementation of district multilingual learner programs by ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations related to language acquisition services.
- Facilitated professional learning sessions and collaborative planning focused on best practices for multilingual learners, improving language development and literacy instruction.
- Provided professional development and ongoing support to ELA teachers on effective instructional strategies for multilingual learners, including language objectives, scaffolding techniques, and differentiation.
- Assisted in onboarding and mentoring new ESL teachers by providing guidance on curriculum implementation, classroom management, assessment practices, and instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with counselors, administrators, special education staff, and families to support the academic, social, and emotional needs of multilingual learners.
- Coordinated WIDA Screener administration and interpretation of results for newly enrolled multilingual learners to ensure appropriate program placement.
- Coordinated district-wide WIDA ACCESS testing for grades 7-12, ensuring testing integrity, compliance, scheduling, training, and accurate reporting of results.
- Advocated for multilingual learners by promoting equitable access to academic programs, graduation pathways, advanced coursework, extracurricular activities, and postsecondary opportunities.
District Bilingual/ESL Instructional Coach (Grades 7-12)
Dover Public Schools
Dover, USA
09.2022 - 10.2023
- Coached teachers in culturally responsive, differentiated instruction, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes for diverse students.
- Coordinated cross-department collaboration to integrate multilingual learner support, fostering a cohesive approach to language acquisition.
- Designed and implemented ESL curriculum revisions and teacher study groups.
- Conducted data analysis on ACCESS assessments to identify growth opportunities, informing targeted instructional strategies.
- Developed a teacher mentoring program to enhance retention and instructional efficacy.
ESL Teacher (Grades 9-12)
Dover Public Schools
Dover, USA
02.2018 - 08.2022
- Authored curricula for advanced ESL programs and literacy-focused courses.
- Consistently achieved ACCESS score improvements of 1.0 annually across cohorts.
- Introduced SEL initiatives, including mindfulness programs that supported remote learners' emotional well-being.
- Recruited and trained student interpreters, enhancing family engagement during events.
- Collaborated with higher education institutions to secure scholarship and employment opportunities for multilingual learners.
IELTS Writing & Speaking Examiner
IELTS USA
Teaneck, USA
01.2010 - 03.2020
- Administered and scored IELTS writing and speaking modules for over 1,000 candidates, enhancing assessment reliability through accurate application of official rubrics.
- Maintained rigorous quality assurance to ensure compliance with Examiner Code of Practice and international testing standards, safeguarding test validity.
- Conducted examiner standardization training and re-certification processes, reinforcing test integrity and examiner consistency.
Academic Director
ELS Language Centers - Fairleigh Dickinson University
Teaneck, USA
06.2011 - 01.2017
- Directed program enhancements to increase student retention by 10%.
- Developed innovative curricula integrating technology to improve learning outcomes.
- Managed ESL faculty and academic operations to ensure effective instructional delivery within a $500,000 budget.
- Supervised student placement, testing, and evaluation processes to support academic success.
- Conducted national training sessions and open-house events for prospective students.
Instructional Specialist
ELS Language Centers - Fairleigh Dickinson University
Teaneck, USA
07.2009 - 06.2011
- Designed and implemented new ESL curricula to address diverse student needs.
- Facilitated professional development sessions that increased faculty competency and teaching effectiveness.
- Coached teachers to strengthen classroom practices, leading to improved student engagement.
- Collaborated with academic leadership to align instructional strategies with institutional goals, enhancing curriculum coherence.
ESL Teacher
ELS Language Centers - Fairleigh Dickinson University
Teaneck, USA
07.2006 - 06.2009
- Developed engaging lesson plans to meet diverse learning needs and foster language acquisition among students.
- Taught ESL courses focusing on improving students' language proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- Coordinated instruction, maintained attendance records, and conducted evaluations alongside faculty to enhance curriculum effectiveness.
Education
SIOP for Advanced Coaches Certification -
Center For Applied Linguistics
Washington, ME01-2025
SIOP Trainer of Trainers Certification -
Center For Applied Linguistics
Washington, ME10-2023
ESL Certification -
The College of New Jersey
Ewing Township08-2020
CESP Alternate Route Program in Teaching -
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
New Brunswick, NJ01-2020
Master of Arts - Applied Linguistics
University of Massachusetts
Boston06-2011
Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA) -
University of Cambridge
Cambridge, England02-2009
Bachelor of Arts - English Language and Literature
Sts. Cyril and Methodius University
Macedonia01-2005
NJEXCEL Model 3 - Supervisor and Principal Certification Program
NJEXCEL
Monroe TownshipSkills
- Bilingual education, ESL and World Languages
- Curriculum development
- Curriculum alignment
- Instructional leadership
- Classroom management
- Data analysis
- Instructional coaching
- Program compliance
- Multilingual learner support
- Teacher training
- Professional development
- Culturally responsive teaching
- Facilitating workshops
- Documentation and reporting
- Coaching and mentoring
- Public speaking
- Staff development
- Team building
- Attention to detail
Certification
- Principal, CE
- Supervisor, Standard Certificate
- Teacher Leader, Standard Certificate
- ESL, Standard Certificate
- SIOP Trainer Certification
- WIDA Screener Certification (K-12)
- IELTS Examiner Certification (2010-2020)
Accomplishments
- Successfully improved student outcomes, with consistent ACCESS score gains across roles.
- Designed and implemented multiple ESL curricula and professional development programs.
- Recognized for leadership excellence through Governor's Educator of the Year and TESOL Advisory roles.
- Developed and facilitated targeted professional development sessions attended by over 300 educators.
- Enhanced teacher retention by mentoring and supporting over 50 teachers in instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with non-profits to secure educational resources and materials for underserved students.
- Introduced innovative AI tools in classrooms to support multilingual learners, increasing engagement by 25%.
- Coordinated interdepartmental efforts to align ESL support with district-wide academic goals.
- Initiated and led SEL programs that contributed to a 15% reduction in absenteeism among ML students.
- Played a key role in securing Seal of Biliteracy for over 100 students by promoting language proficiency.
Activities
- Member, School Improvement Committee
- Member, NJPSA MLL Committee
- Presenter, NJTESOL, 2023, The Power of Effective Instructional Coaching, 2024, Scaffolds for Multilingual Learners in ELA and Social Studies & Scaffolds for Multilingual Learners in Math, Science, and Health, 2025, Empowering MLs: Utilizing AI Tools for Effective Scaffolding
- Creator and Presenter, SIOP Training, 3-day PD, 15 hours, Scaffolding in ELA Classes, 1 hour, Scaffolding in Social Studies Classes, 1 hour, Scaffolding in High School Math, 1 hour, Scaffolding in Arts, 1 hour, Scaffolding in Science Classes, 1 hour, Reading & Writing with MLs K-5 Framework, 1 hour, MLs & Special Education, 1 hour, LinkIt WIDA Can Do Fingertip Profiles, 1 hour, Utilizing AI Tools for Effective Scaffolding in the Classroom, 1 hour
College Teaching Experience
- Reading and Writing Instructor, Bergen Community College, Paramus, NJ, 2025- Present, Teach and manage American Language I Writing (ALP-043) and American Language III Reading (ALP-064) courses, focusing on developing students' academic literacy.
- College Prep Program Instructor, Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC), Somerville, NJ, 2024-2025, Prepare high school students for college through a comprehensive summer program focused on academic skills development, including writing, reading comprehension, and critical thinking., Guide students through college-level assignments, fostering an understanding of the academic rigor required in higher education., Collaborate with other faculty members to create engaging, skill-building activities that enhanced students' preparedness for college success.
- Adjunct Professor of ESL, County College of Morris
- Passaic County Community College
- William Paterson University
- Bergen Community College, 2025-Present, Deliver comprehensive ESL programs to undergraduate and graduate students, focusing on academic and professional English., Develop and implement curricula for advanced writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills., Coordinate placement testing, academic advising, and program evaluations., Mentor and train new adjunct faculty to align with institutional goals., Integrate innovative technology and AI tools to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
Languages
- English
- Macedonian (native)
- Serbian
- Spanish
- French
Awards
- Governor Educator of the Year, Dover Public Schools, 2021-12-01
- United Macedonian Diaspora 40 Under 40 Award Winner, 2021-11-01
- Award for Excellence in Teaching, ELS Language Centers @ FDU, 2010-12-01
Timeline
Supervisor of Bilingual Education, ESL and World Languages PreK-12
Bound Brook Public Schools
08.2025 - Current
Bilingual/ESL Instructional Coach (Grades 7-12)
Bound Brook Public Schools
09.2024 - 07.2025
ESL Teacher & Head Teacher of ESL (Grades 7-12)
Bound Brook Public Schools
10.2023 - 06.2024
District Bilingual/ESL Instructional Coach (Grades 7-12)
Dover Public Schools
09.2022 - 10.2023
ESL Teacher (Grades 9-12)
Dover Public Schools
02.2018 - 08.2022
Academic Director
ELS Language Centers - Fairleigh Dickinson University
06.2011 - 01.2017
IELTS Writing & Speaking Examiner
IELTS USA
01.2010 - 03.2020
Instructional Specialist
ELS Language Centers - Fairleigh Dickinson University
07.2009 - 06.2011
ESL Teacher
ELS Language Centers - Fairleigh Dickinson University
07.2006 - 06.2009
SIOP for Advanced Coaches Certification -
Center For Applied Linguistics
SIOP Trainer of Trainers Certification -
Center For Applied Linguistics
ESL Certification -
The College of New Jersey
CESP Alternate Route Program in Teaching -
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Master of Arts - Applied Linguistics
University of Massachusetts
Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA) -
University of Cambridge
Bachelor of Arts - English Language and Literature
Sts. Cyril and Methodius University
NJEXCEL Model 3 - Supervisor and Principal Certification Program
NJEXCEL