Ms. Jenn Kittredge
Position: 5th Grade Teacher (Math and ELA) and District Math Curriculum Leader
Education Background:
The University of Connecticut B.S in Education and M.A in Education, Certified Elementary K-6 Educator Graduate of the Principal Residency Network, Certified RI Building Administrator , and Montessori Trained Educator- Upper Elementary Grades 3-5
What you like most about being a 5th-grade teacher?
That’s an easy question to answer-5th graders! What are the best things about 5th graders? They are funny, inquisitive, kind-hearted and eager to learn. They are ready to step into more mature, challenging learning tasks, but need our support and encouragement to push through challenges, coming out more confident on the other side. They are finding own voice, interests, and passions. They take pride in doing their best and appreciate being recognized for their efforts. I love that 5th graders enjoy learning through collaboration, hands-on activities, and games. Fifth graders love to talk, communicate and share ideas. I do my best to capitalize on this through classroom activities such as student lead book talks, making videos, having writing conferences and engaging in math discussions with peers. They are truly social beings and that is an amazing source of learning potential.
Why do you enjoy teaching in Jamestown?
I enjoy being part of a tight-knit school community where we strive to do what is in the best interest of all students. In Jamestown, students are not seen as “my kids” or “your kids” but rather our kids collectively and this is an amazing thing. One of my favorite parts of the day is first thing in the morning as all of the students stream into the Lawn School main hallway. While I am there to greet the 5th graders, I make it a point to greet and say hello to former and older students as they pass by. Sometimes I get a greeting back, sometimes not, but that doesn’t matter. It is unique and special that the small size of our school community allows every student is known, seen and valued.
What are you passionate about?
While I am passionate about many things when it comes to my life and professional career, I have recently reconnected with the value of gratitude in all of its forms- giving it, accepting it and growing from it. So I guess you could say I am passionate about being thankful! I try to start each day with gratitude by being thankful for my home, my health, my family and friends as well as for my students and colleagues. Even when challenges and disappointments arise, gratitude grounds me in what is important. I am lucky to have found my calling in the field of education and to practice my profession here in Jamestown as both a teacher and a leader. I am grateful for that gift every day.
What is something exciting the students can expect this year?
Well, there are many exciting things to look forward to this year, but I’d say that the Change-makers Research Project in grade 5 and Island Treasures Day 2020 will certainly be two of the highlights this year.
As the Teacher of the Year, how do you see yourself as being a leader in our district?
For the past 13 years, I have had many opportunities to step out of my classroom role and be a teacher leader. Taking on leadership roles outside the classroom is both encouraged and supported by the administration. The diverse opportunities to “wear many hats,” grow professionally, and to lead keeps me here in Jamestown. I value the opportunity to contribute positively to our district’s culture and community through true collaborations with all stakeholders. Currently, I am the district Math Curriculum Leader and a member of the Math Curriculum Adoption Committee. I also serve on both the District Schedule and Professional Development Committees and am the co-chair of the Lawn Advisory Committee, which guides the work of the Advisory Program at Lawn. I look forward to being part of contributing to the new five year Strategic Plan for the district. Why do I seek these additional roles beyond my classroom? Because, ultimately, all of the professional work of these committees and the contributions of the dedicated educators who serve on them weave together to be the strong foundation needed for all Jamestown students to be successful and to thrive. Being part of the bigger picture to positively impact the growth and success of all of the students in the Jamestown Schools is my leadership goal.