Meet Karen Cubberly, a dedicated special education teacher at Hopatcong High School in New Jersey who just earned her biology endorsement and Master of Science in Teaching & Learning Biology through NJCTL.

With over 26 years as a teacher, dual degrees in Elementary and Special Education, and a Ph.D. in Theology, Karen is a true lifelong learner.

Karen began her career teaching fourth and fifth grades as a maternity leave replacement before taking a job at the middle school. After nine years in special ed at the lower grades she was transferred to the high school. “I was broken-hearted at first, believing I was meant to work with younger kids. Now I love teaching high school. I don’t want to be anywhere else.”

While Karen taught a range of subjects, her co-teaching experience in biology ignited her passion for the subject. Recognizing her desire to deepen her content knowledge and build confidence, she decided to enroll in NJCTL’s Biology Add-On Endorsement program. “I love, love, love biology and wanted to take my teaching to the next level.”

At first, she was hesitant about enrolling in NJCTL’s program, thinking it wouldn’t fit into her busy life as a teacher, mom and avid volunteer. “I thought, ‘I don’t have time for this,’” she recalls. “But when I saw it was self-paced, I realized it might be within my reach...and it was! Because I was able to study when it was most convenient for me, I was able to complete the program within a year!”

Karen also appreciates NJCTL’s affordability. “NJCTL is so much cheaper than other options. The 34 credits I earned here cost my school less than 12 credits earned elsewhere, and I’m getting a degree!”

As a fun way to celebrate her achievement, Karen plans to get a DNA tattoo. “That’s my reward!” she laughs.

Karen's dual role as a special education and now a biology teacher makes her an invaluable resource for her students and we are excited to see where her newfound expertise takes her next!