- Jessica Lay, Jane Chance Elementary School, Miamisburg City Schools

“These teachers make it a priority to ensure that every student, regardless of background or ability, feels supported and valued in their classes.”

-Jessica Lay

As an educator, I have had the pleasure of working with two outstanding teachers, Gail Feix and Jennifer Christensen, who have gone above and beyond to create an environment that foster a love for STEM in our students. They have been instrumental in developing and implementing new STEM labs at Mark Twain and Mound elementary schools that are engaging, challenging, and student-centered. Gail and Jennifer have created environments that support the whole child and promote mastery of learning. They recognize that every student comes to their classrooms with unique needs, strengths, and challenges; and they have designed experiences that meet students where they are and help them reach their full potential. Gail and Jennifer are also masters at checking for understanding during daily lessons. They use various strategies to assess student learning and adjust their instruction as needed to ensure that all students progress.

But their dedication doesn't stop there. These teachers have also made it a priority to ensure that every student, regardless of background or ability, feels supported and valued in their classes. Their inclusive and welcoming learning environments are a testament to their hard work and their commitment to student success.

What sets Gail and Jennifer apart is their unwavering commitment to providing their students with the best possible learning experience. They have both spent countless hours outside of school researching and developing innovative approaches to teaching STEM, including hands-on activities and project-based learning. They understand that the best way to learn is by doing, and they have created labs that allow their students to experiment, problem-solve, and collaborate.

Not only are Gail and Jennifer exceptional at creating environments that support student learning and growth, but they are also skilled at celebrating their students' successes and leading them through learning from their mistakes. They recognize that failure is a natural part of the learning process and use those experiences as opportunities for growth and improvement. Their enthusiasm for student achievement is contagious and helps create positive and supportive classroom communities.

Whether cheering on a student who finally solves a challenging problem or helping a student who has made a mistake learn from it, Gail and Jennifer are always there to offer encouragement and support. It's clear that they genuinely care about their students and are invested in helping them reach their full potential.

It's not just their individual accomplishments that make these educators stand out. Gail and Jennifer have formed a dynamic teaching trio with me that is greater than the sum of its parts. Our “STEAM Team” complements each other's strengths and works seamlessly together to create a cohesive learning experience for our students. Our collaborative approach allows us to achieve more than we could on our own. It's clear that Gail and Jennifer are deserving of recognition for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to their students.

Today is a momentous occasion for Miamisburg City Schools as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students through two outstanding educators. Our Viking mascot, who embodies our mission to inspire, collaborate, innovate, and educate, is leading the charge. Gail and Jennifer's exceptional work in promoting STEM education aligns perfectly with our district mission, and we are honored to have such dedicated teachers!

I can't think of two teachers more deserving of this honor, and I know they will continue to positively impact their students' lives for years to come.

Teachers Honor Teachers

The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation launched a new program in fall 2022 inviting teachers to recognize a colleague they know is doing exceptional work in the classroom.

In the above post, Jessica Lay expresses her admiration for fellow teachers, Gail Feix and Jennifer Christensen. Thank you to all three educators for your dedication to students and for taking the time to showcase what it means to deliver challenging, innovative, and student-centered lessons that result in powerful and deep learning.

Through the Teachers Honor Teachers Program, The Foundation is seeking Ohio public school teachers to share great things about a teaching colleague in an Ohio public school that ensures deep learning for students. If we choose to post your story, we will award $500 toward that teacher's classroom for their great work and $500 toward your classroom for honoring their excellence. Apply here.