Thomas Gaffey

Thomas joined Building 21 after seven years as a 9th grade math teacher at Philadelphia’s School of the Future (SOF) where he utilized problem-based and technology-driven learning approaches to support students in tackling real-world problems. Thomas was also the Director of Educational Technology at SOF managing their one-to-one laptop program. As a Microsoft Innovative Educator master trainer and founder of What If Partners, LLC., Thomas has led professional development for teachers and school districts nationally. Thomas co-created the Building 21 Competency Framework and the Studio instructional model, developed a Google Apps-based prototyping system for data dashboards, and designed a competency-based LMS called Beacon Learning. He is now leading an expansion effort to help districts across the country use the Building 21 competency framework to personalize education for students.