Taylor Trost’s classroom at Grace Norton Rogers Elementary School is a hub of innovation and inclusivity, reflecting her commitment to ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education. Trost teaches a fourth grade inclusion class that is grounded in project-based learning, songs and physical activity that keep her students engaged throughout the school day. Her approach pays off: Her students show consistent achievement gains in reading and math as measured by state and district assessments.
One memorable lesson involved the creation of a faux campfire in her classroom, complete with a fan and orange paper, to inspire students to write and share their own “campfire story” as part of a lesson to develop students’ creative writing and public speaking skills. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she stepped up to help bridge the unexpected technology needs between the school and its families, working with the principal and the technology team to develop a remote-learning model, including virtual field trips, that was adopted by the school district.
Outside of the classroom, Trost is a leader in her own right, stepping into the lead teacher role at the school during her second year of teaching. She supervises student teachers, mentors new teachers, and regularly invites peers to observe her classroom. Her innovative teaching methods, positive leadership and creative approach to education have earned the respect and trust of students and colleagues alike.
It is no surprise that parents at Grace Norton Rogers Elementary regularly request Trost for their rising fourth graders. One of her classroom’s goals for parents is to “maintain open, accessible and supportive lines of communication.” Key ways she has achieved this is by developing rubrics for parents to better understand their students’ grades and hosting weekly calls to parents to more closely involve them in their children’s education.
Trost received a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and English literature from Rowan University in 2015 and master’s in educational leadership from Montclair State University in 2022. She holds New Jersey supervisor, principal, and school administrator certifications.
Press release: Hightstown Teacher Surprised with $25,000 Milken Educator Award
