Mrs. Jenny Clausen has been a friendly face in the FPD elementary science lab, on the nature trails, and in the gardens for the past seven years. Prior to that, she taught fourth grade for five years at FPD and another twelve years at other schools before joining the FPD team. Now, Mrs. Clausen says she is ready for a “career change” and will be running her family’s pecan farm in Zebulon, Georgia – and traveling every chance she gets!
We wanted to catch up with Mrs. Clausen as we wrap up the school year and learn more about her love for science and teaching.
Who inspired you to be a teacher?
My 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Morris, was very kind and made learning fun. (I had many lousy teachers in elementary school, so I’ve always tried to be the type of teacher that I wish I’d had!)
What other grades/subjects have you taught?
I’ve taught Pre-K thru 12th grade at 8 different schools in 4 different states, all subjects through middle school. When I taught high school, I was at an outdoor therapeutic program for teenage girls.
What unit of science or lab is your favorite and why?
I’ve always had a love for Space Exploration. In July 1969, Apollo 11 landed on the moon for the first time. My family was watching it on television. I remember being as impressed by my parents’ reactions, as I was, with what we saw and heard.
Any funny science lab memories?
I once ordered some live crickets for our pet leopard gecko. When the box arrived, the crickets were loose in the box and ended up hopping all over the science lab! We were trying to round them up without injuring them in the process.
What do you hope students take away from your class?
I hope that they have a love for science and a lifelong love of learning. The universe is a fascinating place!
Quick Answer Questions
Favorite Book: Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Favorite Place to Travel: Any place that promises a new adventure!
Favorite Way to Spend a Weekend: I like to work hard at the farm or in my yard, then spend late afternoon and evening with my friends and family.
Unique facts that students might not know about you? I am one of seven kids, including two sets of twins. I have lived in six states and have visited 43.
Favorite Bible Verse: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1