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: Jennifer Garrison

School: Dowagiac Middle School

Grades/subjects taught: Sixth through eighth, school counselor.

Where did you attend college? University of Minnesota, Spring Arbor University

How many years have you been teaching? How many years have you been with your current school? This will be my second year as a counselor, and it is my first year with Dowagiac Union Schools.

Why did you decide to become a teacher? I wanted to use my positive personality to help motivate students to succeed academically and emotionally. I also wanted to help students with problems and have someone to talk to so if they didn’t have anyone in his/her life to discuss problems with, I could be the person that they can talk to.

Outside of school, what do you enjoy doing for fun? Shopping, hanging out with friends and going to Lake Michigan.

What is one thing your students may not know about you? I was in the army and lived in Germany as a soldier.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why? Mickey Mouse because he is always happy and loved to have fun.

When you were a student in the grade you teach, what were your favorite hobbies? Shopping, dancing, hanging out with friends and softball.

How would your coworkers describe your teaching style and personality? I’m outgoing, have a positive attitude, I’m easy to talk to and love to smile and laugh.

Who is your biggest role model and why? My aunt Beverly because she has a generous heart, always puts family first and always has style and class.

How has education changed in the last 10 years? I feel that technology is the biggest thing that has impacted education in the last 10 years.

What is your best advice to parents to help their child continue to grow academically? Always encourage a positive attitude, organizational skills and always be willing to ask for help.

If my students learn one thing this year, I hope it is… to always have a positive attitude.