Jena Taylor

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because it has always been a part of who I am. I have always found myself observing those around me and jumping in to make sure they understood the way I did. I have always found passion for making everyone feel that a new skill or set of knowledge is attainable. Providing a learning experience in which a person feels comfortable making mistakes, learning from them, and growing as a result is what calls me to be an educator.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I will always remember watching last year’s seniors graduate. We all began our time at GTCHS in the middle of the pandemic, experienced strange regulations and classroom environments together, suffered loss and quarantine, and found a way to define normal after all the trauma. At the end of their four years, they chose to dedicate the yearbook to me; an honor decided solely by the students. To know I meant as much to them as they did to me was so meaningful and fulfilling.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have two goals for the prize money. First I would provide my family a truly memorable traveling experience abroad. The only way to battle ignorance is through travel, and I want my children to embrace what is different as a good thing. My second goal would be to use the money to begin my journey to earning a PhD. I want to research solutions to today’s education problems. My time as a PhD student would allow me to begin that journey and build the credentials and connections necessary to do so.