A Classroom That Feels Like Home: Maggie Dipner
For Maggie Dipner, a career in education felt like a natural fit. Growing up in a family surrounded by elementary school teachers and school nurses, working with children was always familiar. She’s always been driven by a belief that everyone deserves the chance to experience life with joy and opportunity. Today, that commitment continues through graduate studies in Applied Behavior Analysis, where she blends teaching with a strong interest in thoughtful, evidence-based interventions.
After graduating from Rowan University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and Literacy Studies, Maggie began teaching in a self-contained preschool classroom – a role she loved. Earning her special education certification opened the door to deeper learning around research-based interventions, and joining Bancroft gave that curiosity room to grow. Through close collaboration with skilled clinicians, Maggie’s passion for the work has only grown stronger. This year, she started the Rider Cohort for graduate study in Applied Behavior Analysis, and is looking forward to expanding her knowledge even further.
What Maggie loves most about being a teacher at Bancroft is seeing students succeed, especially in areas that once felt difficult. Each day is filled with opportunities to build new coping and problem-solving skills that help her students navigate social and emotional challenges. Watching them grow more resilient and confident, while celebrating milestones big and small, is incredibly rewarding.
Reflecting at the end of each school year, the progress is unmistakable. Challenges that once felt overwhelming in September often become manageable by May. Seeing students use their new strategies and grow more capable and confident reinforces the impact of her work.
One particularly meaningful moment came during the holiday season, when a student unexpectedly learned he would not be able to go home for Christmas. “I made it my mission to bring an amazing Christmas to him at his group home, alongside his staff,” says Maggie. “I came over with Christmas crafts, some games and snacks, and we had the best Christmas time. My student kept saying it was his favorite Christmas he ever had, and honestly it was my favorite Christmas too.”
With Bancroft’s environment of continued support and resources, Maggie feels empowered to keep learning, growing, and making a lasting difference in the lives of each student she serves.