Hello Aviators, 

My name is Jennifer Klesel, and I am one of the QUEST teachers here at Akin Elementary! This will be my 5th year as a QUEST teacher in Leander ISD, BUT I have been in gifted education for over 15 years and this is my 22nd year teaching. Before coming to Leander, I was a G/T teacher and G/T Coordinator in Manor ISD and co-created and lead the G/T program. Prior to that I was a reading interventionist and campus G/T Coordinator, a first grade and G/T enrichment teacher, and a middle/high school dance teacher for 3 years. I have worn many hats and have taught many ages, and I have LOVED it all! I am G/T certified by the state of Texas and am a member of the TAGT (Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented) Awareness Committee. Gifted education is my passion, and it is my mission to always advocate for G/T scholars' educational rights. 

I was raised in Austin and am a graduate of Texas State University. Me, my husband, and my two daughters live in Leander. My oldest daughter will be in 9th grade and is a QUEST student. My youngest daughter is 4 1/2 years old, and both girls definitely keep us busy! 

My husband and I enjoy traveling, going to concerts, watching scary movies, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends. I enjoy decorating, organizing, painting, writing poetry, reading, watching movies, dancing, and listening to music. 

My philosophy for teaching gifted students is to provide engaging and authentic learning experiences that will challenge them to critically think, use creative thinking skills, and communication skills while having fun! I am here to support the QUESTers both inside and outside of the QUEST classroom. I encourage parent communication, and parent volunteers are always welcome. 

To see what is going on in QUEST please see our Facebook page and my Twitter page. For Facebook, go to the Akin QUEST Facebook page and click "like." For Twitter, go to the Twitter link provided and click "follow." We like to post the amazing things that your kids are up to in the QUEST room! 

Here is to a wonderful year of learning and growing!