Title: Chief Academic Officer
At PALCS Since: 2025
Education:
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership – Delaware Valley University
Master of Science, Science Education – Lebanon Valley College
Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education – Susquehanna University
Brief Biography: Dr. Rider-Bertrand is an experienced educator, administrator, and professional development facilitator. She has taught pre-kindergarten, fifth grade, gifted/enrichment, and high school science. Additionally, she has served as an elementary science specialist, technology coach, and math interventionist. As a college adjunct instructor, she has developed and taught curriculum, assessment, and STEM education courses. Before her administrative role at PALCS, Dr. Rider-Bertrand was a Director of Instructional Services, Program Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Supervisor of STEM Education, and K-12 Science and Technology Coordinator.
Providing professional service to the field of education has always been important to Dr. Rider-Bertrand. She has participated in statewide education committees, presented at conferences, and served on the boards of educational organizations. An active scholar, Dr. Rider-Bertrand established a statewide STEM conference, conducted grant-funded research to enhance science and math instruction, authored elementary STEM curriculum, and acted as the field editor of a professional journal. She has received recognition as a PA Technology Integrator, Presidential Awardee for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, ITEEA’s Supervisor of the Year, and a Lockette/Monroe Humanitarian.
In her free time, Dr. Rider-Bertrand enjoys tackling home improvement projects, traveling, and gardening. She recently completed training as a Master Gardener with the Penn State Extension and is working to increase the native plants in her landscape.
