Meet The Author
CJ Machosky
BA, MS, SAS
Claire Johnson-CJ Machosky’s career in education spans more than half a century. Machosky began teaching in a parochial school on Long Island and then moved to New York’s esteemed Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools. At Hewlett-Woodmere, Machosky served as Social Studies Teacher, Department Chairperson, School Dean, Coordinator of the Talented and Gifted Program, New Teacher Trainer and Staff Developer.
Retiring from Hewlett-Woodmere she became an Educational Consultant and Staff Developer for the New York State Department of Education, Nassau and Suffolk Board of Cooperative Education Services, and an independent Education Contractor. Claire Machosky is co-editor of the New York State Elementary Social Studies Curiculum.
Today her credentials include a certified Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Coach and Grant Reader. A long-standing member of Phi Delta Kappa International Educators Organization, Claire is a frequent presenter and competition judge at their annual Educator’s Rising National Conventions.
Throughout her career Machosky has been dedicated to helping students learn how to learn. She realized that when applying research-based instructional strategies such as direct instruction, curriculum mapping, and feedback to classroom instruction, student achievement increased significantly. Machosky realized that her students who previously struggled academically benefited from learning how to learn.
Machosky developed structured, evidence-informed instructional approaches that addressed differential learning styles and emphasized metacognitive awareness. Her methods encouraged students to analyze assignment requirements, articulate understanding in their own words, utilize academic resources effectively, and apply reflective practices following assessments and feedback. As Department Chairperson, she shared these study and instructional strategies with her staff; as a consultant she implemented them in underperforming districts. The results were amazingly gratifying; always double-digit improvement!
This continued success inspired Machosky to write STUDY! A Path to Learning and Literacy and help all students unlock their true potential. The book presents step-by-step strategies for organization, establishing routines, time management, comprehension, and information acquisition, with guidance for students, parents, and educators. Now based in Northern Virginia, Machosky continues to advocate for intentional, skill-based learning practices that support long-term academic success.
In addition to her undergraduate and graduate degrees, Machosky received scholarships and attended post-graduate seminars in the United States and London, England. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Government from Adelphi University and a Master of Science in School Administration from Long Island University.
Adelphi University – 2012 Alumnae Achievement Award
Who’s Who Among American Teachers -1996
PTA Life Membership – 1981
