The Presidential Award signifies my dedication to becoming an effective facilitator of learning has been successful. I have spent my career persistently reinventing myself as an educator, devoted to deeply engaging my students and creating critical thinkers in science. This honor is a testament to that journey. It inspires me to continue reflecting, using a growth mindset, creating innovative lessons, and striving to teach at high levels to ensure students receive the education they deserve.

Jennifer Jones Ogallala, NE | 7-12, Science, 2023

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

Jennifer Jones has been an educator for 15 years and has spent the last 13 years teaching high school Chemistry, Advanced Chemistry-Dual Credit, Anatomy/Physiology, Physics, and Science Capstone to 10th-12th grade students at Ogallala High School. She previously taught Chemistry and Environmental Science at Torrington High School for two years. Jennifer sparks students' passion for science, both inside and outside the classroom. By utilizing phenomena and storylines, she connects content to applications that students encounter in their everyday world. She has mentored numerous students in conducting scientific research, enabling multiple participants to qualify for the International Science and Engineering Fair. Furthermore, as the sponsor for Science Olympiad, Jennifer helps students find other opportunities to succeed in science competitions, coaching several state event medalists. Jennifer's dedication to science education extends beyond the classroom walls. She serves as the 2023-2024 President of the Nebraska Association of Teachers of Science and as a teacher leadership community coach for Nourish the Future. Jennifer has presented sessions on diverse science education topics at state and national conferences, sharing her expertise with fellow educators. Her experience also encompasses publishing scientific research, participating on her district's Continuous Improvement Team, and serving on various science standard development teams for the state of Nebraska. Jennifer earned a B.A. in chemistry and B.A. in secondary education from the University of Wyoming and an M.S. in science education from Montana State University. She is certified in 7-12 science education and is currently completing an administration certificate from the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

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