Teacher Stories

TEACHER STORIES: Ft. COACH LEANA JARJOUR 

Chloé Aguirre on February 26th, 2025

Our Dance Team and dance program here at Moorpark High School. The dancers perform at many different events such as, homecoming, rallies, a winter and spring showcase, as well as at sports games. The program would not thrive however without the head coach and advisor, Leanna Jarjour. I got to take a minute and ask Coach Lee a pair of questions that really showcase who she is as a mentor and teacher. 

¨What inspired you to become a dance teacher?¨ This was the first question that I asked her. Coach Lee described how it wasn´t exactly what inspired her, but who. 

¨I was the assistant dance team coach for the previous dance teacher Donna Whitelaw. She made a difference in the lives of the students through dance and I wanted to carry on her legacy.¨ Lee responded. Coach Lee looked up to the different ways Whitelaw cared and was passionate towards the students. Being a teacher is what granted Coach Lee with creating purpose, not only for herself but other students too. 

The second question I asked Lee was what her favorite part of the job is. Here is how she responded, ¨What's my favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is watching students grow throughout the year. Whether it's in my beginning dance classes or the dance team, seeing how students grow not only in their dance skills but their individuality is extremely rewarding.¨  She enjoys being a part of the process that pushes the students to become the best they can be in both the dance world and as individuals. Coach Lee is really an inspiration to many students, and she is what allows for this dance program here at Moorpark High to thrive.