Jen Gates

Education has always been a passion! I was motivated by exceptional teachers. As a child, I came home and taught my sisters all I learned at school. When I got older, I dreamed of inspiring students through engaging lessons and memorable experiences. Simply put, I wanted to make learning fun and challenging. Now, I strive to get students out of their comfort zone and to make magic happen daily. Empowering students to rise to their potential creates endless possibilities for our future.

Over the past 2.5 years, my 5th graders worked on a collaborative project involving the community in the creation of WILD-our Wilderness Inquiry Learn Destination. We raised $12k for a pavilion and pitched ideas to construction companies resulting in $50k+ in donated materials/labor and partnerships. A former student returned to build the structure for his senior project. My current class is restoring native plants, beautifying the space, adding a disc golf course, and incorporating geocaching!

In addition to needing funds for our new forest learning space (WILD), my students built out a courtyard at the interior of our school. With wooden raised garden beds that are over a decade old and a pond that needs some serious love, we are in desperate need of funds to reinvigorate our oldest outdoor learning space. (My 3rd graders brought it to life years ago!) Teaching our kids to love and respect nature is a priority, and $25,000 would help finish our many projects!