Meet Mr. Owens

August 13, 2026

Dear Parents,

Welcome to 5th grade. My name is Jacob Goth-Owens (Mr. Owens) and I am excited to be your child’s teacher for the 2026-2027 school year.

I was born and raised in Michigan. I hold a BA from Western Governors University in Elementary Education. This will be my 16th year in education and fourth at Bethke. Previously, I have spent my teaching career in the upper elementary at The American Community School in Amman Jordan, Poudre School District (Bauder), Haslett Public Schools in Haslett Michigan, as well as teaching at the American School of Kuwait. I have also coached grade five, middle school, and high school soccer during my time as an educator.

I have two sons Eli (8) and Jonah (10), they will be in 3rd and 5th grade this year at Harris Bilingual Elementary. When I am not working I enjoy traveling with my kids, backpacking, fly fishing, doing crossword puzzles, and watching Michigan State basketball. I am thrilled to be returning to the 5th grade team at Bethke this year.

My email is jgothowens@psdschools.org and you can expect a reply within 24 hours. My goal is for your child to learn and thrive in a safe and healthy environment. My job is to facilitate this development, so please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. I am happy to be your first point of contact regarding class issues or questions, while I might not be able to answer everything, I often can direct you to the right place. 

In addition to parent-teacher communication, student-teacher communication is key. As I build relationships with each student, I will encourage them to take responsibility for their learning and communicate with me directly about any concerns or for clarification. 

Please take a moment and fill out a brief Google Survey (Getting to know your child) to help me plan and streamline the start of school.

More details regarding our curriculum, routines, schedules, and general information are forthcoming in a weekly email/newsletter and at our Back To School Night, Wednesday August 26th from 5:00-6:30.

 I am excited to meet all of you who can make it during our supply drop off/ open house. This will take place on Monday, August 17th, from 3:00pm-4:00pm. Students are welcome to bring their supplies and unpack them in the classroom during this time and say hello. 

First Day of School Reminders: 

• The first day of school is Wednesday, August 19th. The bell rings at 8:20. Students will line up in the woodchips, near the East (Bus gate). We will collect them from there and go over the morning routine in class. 

• Please remind your child to leave the following at home: “knick knacks”, fidgets, and toys. Cell phones have to be turned off and stored in backpacks. Smartwatches are not allowed at school.

• If you or your child are feeling excited, nervous, or all the above please check out our 5th grade website here.

I look forward to a wonderful school year filled with growth, fun, and community.

                    Jake Goth-Owens (Mr. Owens)

            jgothowens@psdschools.org

                                970.448.4363