Jennifer is a problem-solver, an innovator, and a dynamic member of the Dixie Hollins Adult Education Center faculty. She is the ABE/GED lead teacher and her specific program is located at Pinellas Hope; a homeless shelter. Her enthusiasm, love, and passion for teaching and the students she teaches exemplifies the true definition of an adult educator.
Jennifer simply teaches to inspire and impact all those she comes in contact with each day. She has mastered the elusive art of being firm but fair, having rules yet building relationships, and keenly remembering that though she teaches numerous subjects and content areas, she is really teaching each of her students individually with acceptance and true caring.
While remaining current with the latest instructional strategies and technologies, Jennifer can still reach a troubled or struggling student with simple, yet profound, motherly instincts and empathy coupled with complete professionalism. Likewise, she can accelerate and challenge her brightest of students because of professional development experiences and innovations she has pursued and mastered. Jennifer has participated as a trainer at several ACE conferences.
All of her students are deemed homeless and are temporary residents of Pinellas Hope. Pinellas Hope’s goal is to provide its residents with the tools necessary to achieve self-sufficiency. GED classes are held at the shelter on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Resume writing, job skills and financial skills training are also offered throughout the year in her classroom.
Jennifer has written and been awarded grants from the Pinellas Education Foundation, READ Pinellas and Achieva Credit Union. Jennifer is our county certified TABE trainer. With the implementation of TABE 11/12, she has worked tirelessly to ensure all of the CTAE staff are trained and up-to-date.
Jennifer is constantly finding strategies and activities to enhance the process that leads to the student success. She willingly shares these strategies with her colleagues. One of these activities includes the “Escape Box”; an activity now used by many of her colleagues.
For these reasons and more, Jennifer Harrington is most deserving of the 2018 ACE Teacher of the Year!