The Presidential Award brings about feelings of appreciation, gratitude, and motivation. I have found myself reflecting on the great mentors I have had in science and education over the years and their impact on my teaching. Having had the opportunity to work with so many phenomenal educators, receiving this award is humbling. I am beyond grateful. This award motivates me to continue giving students my best, fostering a love and curiosity for science and helping them surpass high expectations.

Jennifer Hite Pearl, MS | K-6, Science, 2022

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Jennifer Hite has been an educator for 15 years and has spent the last 12 years teaching fifth grade science at Pearl Upper Elementary School. Prior to teaching at Pearl Upper Elementary, she taught fifth grade science and mathematics at Brandon Elementary School. Jennifer has a genuine love for science and education that was passed down through generations of educators and family members with STEM-related careers. Her passion and enthusiasm for science comes alive in her classroom. She strives to bring the same love of science to her students and bring light to the science that surrounds them daily. She enjoys being creative when engaging with her students - from dressing in disguise to teach to rearranging her classroom to take students on "field trips" in their "magic school bus". Jennifer is a member of the Mississippi Science Teachers Association and Mississippi Professional Educators. She has served on several data and content review committees for state testing. Jennifer also served on the Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Science Standards Feedback Forum Committee. In 2019, Jennifer was selected as the Pearl Public School District Teacher of the Year. She is the current Science Department Chair at Pearl Upper Elementary. Jennifer earned a B.A. in education from Mississippi State University and is starting the journey to obtain her National Board Certification. She is certified in kindergarten through sixth grade elementary education and in mathematics and science for grades 7–12.

Know a great teacher like Jennifer Hite? Nominate them for PAEMST!