Jennifer Jones

Ogallala, NE | 7-12, Science, 2023

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

I love witnessing that spark when students realize math and science aren't just subjects to memorize, but powerful tools to understand their world. I'm driven by the belief that every student can excel in science when given engaging, relevant experiences that connect to their lives and interests. My goal is to cultivate curious, confident problem-solvers who see themselves as capable of answering questions like scientists with creativity and analytical thinking.

What has been the most transformative moment that affirmed your impact on STEM education?

Rather than one defining moment, my impact is affirmed through countless small but profound encounters with former students messaging me years later about their experiences and STEM careers, parents sharing how their child's confidence blossomed in my classroom, or unexpected reunions where graduates credit our science explorations for sparking their passion. These accumulated moments, each text, email, or chance meeting, creates a powerful collection that validates how quality STEM education plants seeds that grow long after students leave my classroom.

Biography

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 has served as the President of the Nebraska Association of Teachers of Science and has led initiatives to support agriculture in the science classroom. 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.

High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

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