Our Team

Meet Our Founder

Dedicated to empowering learners through accessible, high-quality education.

April Austin-Matthews, Founder of Align Learning Institute

April Austin-Matthews

Founder & Educational Leader

April Austin-Matthews is the founder of Align Learning Institute, bringing more than 15 years of experience in higher education spanning instruction, academic leadership, and campus operations. With a Master's degree in Higher Education Administration, April has dedicated her career to empowering learners of all ages through accessible, high-quality education.

A passionate educator and lifelong learner, April believes that knowledge is the foundation for confidence, opportunity, and success. Her work is fueled by a commitment to equipping individuals with the real-world skills they need to adapt, grow, and excel—whether in their careers, personal lives, or communities.

As a parent, April has seen firsthand the urgent need for practical, skills-based learning in today's world. This insight inspired her to create a learning institute where education meets empowerment, and where students gain tools that genuinely make a difference in their lives.

At Align Learning Institute, April's mission is global. When she speaks of "community," she means the entire world—because every learner, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves the opportunity to rise.

April continues to expand the institute's offerings, with more courses added regularly to meet the evolving needs of students, professionals, and lifelong learners everywhere.

Credentials & Experience

  • Master's Degree in Higher Education Administration
  • 15+ Years in Higher Education Leadership
  • Expert in Instruction & Academic Operations
  • Passionate Advocate for Lifelong Learning
Our Instructors

Expert Instructors

Learn from experienced professionals dedicated to your success.

Khalid Ayyubov - IT and Cybersecurity Expert

Khalid Ayyubov

M.ED., M.S. - IT & Cybersecurity Expert

Contact Information

Work Phone

267-242-1110

Office Location

Work from Home - Doylestown, Pennsylvania

Office Hours

Monday-Friday - 4:00 pm-8:00 pm (EST)

Please contact via email for non-urgent issues and phone for problems requiring immediate assistance.

About Khalid

Originating from Azerbaijan, a nation once part of the Soviet Union, Khalid's path to the United States was driven by a profound aspiration for the American Dream. He immigrated to this beautiful country in 1999 at the age of 20.

While living in Miami, Florida, Khalid met the girl of his dreams, who soon became his wife. The fun fact is that she was also born and raised in Azerbaijan and lived two blocks from him. But destiny brought them together in the United States. They have three boys: Daniel (18), Aiden (12), and Liam (9). Daniel is currently studying at Purdue University, pursuing a Cybersecurity degree.

Khalid's family is expanding through adoption. After waiting three years to adopt a child, driven by their firm belief that helping children is what any responsible adult must do, they recently got matched with their fourth child. As an advisory board member for Bucks County Children and Youth Services, Khalid is deeply committed to fostering continuous improvements within the agency, dedicated to the welfare of the community's youth.

Professional Experience

Khalid has worked in the field of IT since 2002. His experience includes many aspects of daily IT tasks and the implementation of complex projects. IT has always been his passion; he built his first fully operational PC at 13.

He has a deep passion for cybersecurity and is a published author. Currently, Khalid serves as Chief Information and Technology Officer for a prominent government agency.

Khalid's degree programs were fully online, so he understands the challenges of online learning and the importance of instructor visibility and accessibility in the online learning environment.

Education & Credentials

  • Master of Education in Adult Education and Training
  • Master of Science in Information Systems - University of Phoenix
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Devry University
  • Published Author in Cybersecurity
  • Chief Information and Technology Officer

Teaching Philosophy

"One of my foremost goals is to foster an environment where students not only gain knowledge but also develop a lifelong passion for learning. I employ engaging teaching methods, interactive activities, and personalized feedback."

Welcome to a journey of empowerment, enlightenment, and endless possibilities.

Jerrica Jae Franklin - Creative Writing Instructor and Spoken Word Poet

Jerrica "Jae" Franklin

Creative Writing Instructor & Spoken Word Poet

Phone

318-730-1084

Location

Central Louisiana

About Jerrica

Jerrica "Jae" Franklin is a spoken word poet, published author, and creative writing instructor from Central Louisiana. She has over eight years of experience working with youth through writing workshops, mentorship, and community arts programming.

Her facilitation style blends spoken word, reflective writing, and discussion to support emotional regulation, accountability, and positive self-expression. Jerrica has curated and led workshops for libraries, youth organizations, and cultural institutions and is known for creating supportive, inclusive environments where students feel heard and respected.

Professional Experience

Youth Mentor & Facilitator

AMI Kids Acadiana

Anger Management Facilitator

Thinking For A Change

Workshop Curator & Leader

Libraries, Youth Organizations & Cultural Institutions

Spoken Word Poet & Performer

Festivals & Community Events

Publications & Credentials

  • Published Author

    Words For Wings (2023)

    To The Lovers I've Loved Before (2023)

  • Certified Facilitator

    Anger Management & Behavioral Change Programs

  • 8+ Years Experience

    Working with Youth & Justice-Involved Individuals

Teaching Philosophy

"Through poetry, songwriting, and storytelling, my workshops provide supportive and engaging spaces where participants can discover their voice, reflect on their experiences, and channel emotions into creative expression. I believe every person has a story worth telling, and I'm here to help them find the words."

Join Our Mission

Ready to start your learning journey with Align Learning Institute? Explore our programs or get in touch to learn more.