Educators are perhaps the greatest population of unsung heroes in Berrien and Cass County. This school year, Leader Publications will publish a weekly spotlight featuring teachers throughout the district, giving the community a chance to get to know the hard-working individuals shaping their children’s lives. Throughout the next school year, their answers will be published in the newspaper that serves each school district.

Name: Jenni Winters

School: Dowagiac Middle School

Grades/subjects taught: Seventh and eighth grade computers

Where did you attend college? Michigan State University

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? This is my 22nd year — all in Dowagiac.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I wanted to become a teacher so that I could pass on my love of learning and school to students.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? For fun, I like spending time with family and friends, reading, golfing, shopping and watching Michigan State sports.

How has education changed in the last 10 years? Education has become much more hands on and career readiness focused.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue growing academically? To be actively involved in their education.

If my students learn one thing this year, I hope it is … That anyone can be a computer programmer.