Jennifer Reynolds graduated from McNeese State University in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. Two years later, she pivoted her career to education.

She was motivated by a passion for teaching and reaching children where they are to “help them grow to their greatest potential” which had been brewing since she was young. She referred to a “calling” to make a difference in the lives of the youth.

“I prayed for my vocation in life and for God to use me as his instrument in whatever he wanted me to do.”

The “wonderful” experiences she had as a student supported her desire to teach, and she has modeled her methods after the teachers who mentored her and helped her grow.

“Many teachers, coaches and club sponsors believed in me and saw potential in me even when I did not see it in myself,” she said. “I wanted to make a positive difference in the lives of our youth as so many past teachers did for me.”

Reynolds has spent 13 years as a middle school special education and resource/study skills teacher.

She has spent time at multiple schools in Calcasieu Parish: Sam Houston High School, Southwest Charter Academy, F.K. White, S.J. Welsh and (currently) Iowa Middle/High School.

Students are the best part of the gig, “hands down.”

“Even on my most challenging of days, there is nothing I want to do more than to teach children. It is so beautiful to see a child blossom right in front of your eyes and to see them overcome any challenge that they face.

“I love to see them grow and to see where life takes them.”

She and her students are a family, with each one holding a place in her heart.

“Once a student, forever my child,” she said. “I love them all very dearly … regardless of how long ago it was that I taught them. They make me so proud!”

Reynolds believes that every child can learn and that they do that best in a loving, safe environment that makes her students feel accepted.

“Give grace and compassion when needed while also holding them responsible and accountable for their actions and choices they make,” she said. “We are helping guide and mold the youth of today. We must take that responsibility seriously.”