At Proximity Learning Inc. (PLI), the role of a Lead of Implementation is about more than logistics, it’s about passion, connection, and a deep understanding of what students and teachers need to succeed. For Elise, this role is the culmination of a lifelong dedication to education. She isn’t just staffing classrooms or managing virtual learning programs; she’s ensuring that every student, no matter where they are, has access to an exceptional teacher. Her journey from classroom educator to EdTech leader is defined by empathy, experience, and a strong belief in the power of live virtual instruction.

A Teacher at Heart: Elise’s Path to Virtual Education

Before joining PLI, Elise spent years in the classroom, investing in her students’ success. Teaching wasn’t just a job for her, it was a calling. She loved crafting lessons that sparked curiosity, watching students gain confidence, and building strong relationships with families. But as much as she thrived in the classroom, she saw firsthand the challenges that schools faced: teacher shortages, overburdened staff, and students who weren’t always getting the instruction they deserved.

When Elise transitioned into virtual education, she carried that same passion with her. She didn’t see virtual learning as a replacement for in-person teaching but as an opportunity to bring high-quality educators to students who needed them most. That perspective continues to shape how she approaches her work at PLI.

Why Elise Excels at What She Does

Elise’s experience as a teacher is what makes her so exceptional in her role. She doesn’t just match teachers to open positions, she finds educators who will truly connect with their students. She understands that teaching is more than delivering a lesson; it’s about engagement, adaptability, and understanding the unique needs of each classroom. Because she’s been in their shoes, she knows what makes a great virtual teacher, and she takes pride in setting them up for success.

Her ability to build strong relationships extends beyond teachers, she also connects deeply with schools and district leaders. When a school partners with PLI, Elise makes it her mission to understand their culture, values, and expectations. She listens to what makes them unique, whether it’s a strong sense of community, a commitment to parental involvement, or a focus on specific learning approaches. That insight allows her to find teachers who don’t just meet certification requirements but who genuinely fit the school’s environment.

Building Trust in Virtual Learning

One of the biggest hurdles Elise faces is helping schools embrace virtual instruction. Many districts have lingering concerns from past remote learning experiences, but Elise is committed to showing them that live virtual teaching is different. She reassures them that PLI’s educators aren’t just teaching through a screen, they’re actively engaging students, fostering relationships, and making learning meaningful.

She also knows that the best way to ease concerns is through action. That’s why she carefully selects teachers who will make a strong first impression, ensuring that students, parents, and administrators see the value of live virtual learning from day one. Elise is dedicated to helping show how virtual instruction can be an integral and trusted part of a school’s learning environment.

Why Her Work Matters

For Elise, this job isn’t just about staffing classrooms, she knows she is making a difference. She sees herself as an advocate for students, ensuring they have access to excellent teachers no matter where they live. She also sees herself as a champion for educators, helping them find fulfilling opportunities in virtual teaching that allow them to continue doing what they love.

Her journey from the classroom to EdTech has given her a unique perspective, one that blends the heart of an educator with the strategic mindset of a leader. And at the end of the day, that’s what makes her so good at what she does. Because for Elise, this isn’t just a career. It’s a mission.

Finding the Right Teacher for Every School

Elise approaches teacher placements with the mindset of a recruiter, someone who doesn’t just fill a role but finds the best fit. Schools often share unique aspects of their identity, whether it’s a strong football team, a tight-knit community, or an emphasis on parental involvement. Elise uses this information to match them with teachers who will thrive in their environment.

By taking on a role that feels like an extension of the school’s hiring team, Elise helps bridge equity gaps in education. Even though virtual teachers may be hundreds of miles away, a thoughtful, strategic placement ensures they are still the best possible fit for each classroom. Her experience as an educator gives her the intuition and expertise needed to make virtual learning just as impactful as in-person instruction. 

To partner with Proximity Learning, and find the best teachers for your district, connect here.