Educator of the Week: Jennifer Springer

It’s time now to recognize our Educator of the Week, brought to you by the Tennessee Education Lottery.

Jennifer Springer is a 6th grade social studies teacher at South Gibson County Middle School.

She shared why she decided to pursue education.

“I think what made me decide to be a teacher is because when I grew up, I wasn’t a very good student,” Springer said. “And so I wanted to make sure that I chose a profession that would help kids be the best that they can. And so education was the best route.”

Springer has been teaching for 20 years and has been at Gibson County for nine years.

She shares why it means so much to her to see all past students remember her class.

“I think when my students are coming back year after year telling me that they enjoyed my class and remembering all the things they learned in class, I think that’s what keeps all of us going,” she said.

When it comes to social studies, her goal is to keep students engaged in whatever method is best for the students, even if it is a little different.

“I’m a little unconventional. We do a lot of writing on the floor, writing on the desk, just kind of change it up a bit,” she said. “Every time they are more active and more engaging, they’re putting more connections and they’re remembering and enjoying the content.”

She doesn’t stop with just her students. Springer also enjoys helping aspiring teachers learn the ropes of the classroom.

She says it’s important for teachers to be mentally prepared for when school starts back.

“Stick with it,” she said. “Know the ‘why’ you are in the class room and hold to that near and dear in your heart.”

Springer is now eligible for the Tennessee Education Lottery Educator of the Month award.

To vote for her or any other nominees, go to the Tennessee Education Lottery website.

To nominate an educator for our Educator of the Week award, email us at educator@wbbjtv.com.