Prisma is the world’s most engaging virtual school that prepares kids for the ever-changing world of the future. Our team of educators have a diverse background of experience on the cutting edge of teaching and learning, whether they’ve worked in brick and mortar schools or dynamic online environments. In our Meet the Team blog series, you’ll get to read more about the amazing educators behind Prisma.

Trevor Baker joined Prisma in summer 2023 as the LaunchPad Program Designer & Mentor Coach for our high school program. 

Where are you based? 

Washington, D.C.

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Tell us a little bit about your background in education prior to joining Prisma. 

Having earned my Bachelor's in Education from Redford University and a Master's from Virginia Commonwealth University, I embarked on a five-year journey of pure fun teaching elementary school. Following that, I enjoyed seven years in the world of post-secondary education, working closely with learners to make their career and college dreams come true. This adventure led me to the wonderful team at Prisma.

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You’re spearheading the design of Prisma High School’s LaunchPad program. Can you explain what the LaunchPad Program is and why families should be excited about it? 

LaunchPad is a program crafted to empower and guide learners through planning their future. Our goal is to deeply understand and nurture each learner’s interests and aspirations, ensuring each of their unique paths are fully supported. The program includes everything from SAT & ACT testing preparation and building out a list of potential colleges meeting each learner’s needs, to a learner-designed capstone project and senior year internship placement. 

Families should be excited about LaunchPad because it equips learners with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their post-Prisma journey, whether they choose higher education or dive directly into a career. It's a comprehensive approach preparing learners for a successful transition to the next stage of their lives.

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You also design our High School standup workshops that bring learners together in community each day. What’s your approach to building bonds between learners? 

Our standup workshops build community through team-building activities, peer support systems, and regular group discussions. During standup, we dive into topics aligned with preparing learners for the real world. Learners develop and build their Prisma portfolios, have open discussions through table topics, and even trade off planning and leading their own activities to build their own facilitation skills. This inclusive environment allows learners to connect, learn from one another, and grow both academically and personally. 

If you could pick one skill that all kids should master to prepare for the world of the future, what would it be and why? 

Critical thinking. This skill equips learners to adapt to change, solve problems, make informed decisions, navigate the digital world, drive innovation, communicate effectively, and embrace lifelong learning. 

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What do you like to learn about, or what is something new you learned recently? 

I really enjoy being on the water and learning more about marine and ocean life. Currently, I'm learning to play the guitar, and it's been a blast! I practice (almost) every day to get better at chords and strumming. It's a bit challenging, but I'm having a ton of fun with it.