Michaelle Jaeger

Teacher: Michaelle Jaeger

Subject: 6^th grade Science

School: Harlem Middle School (Loves Park)

Teaching experience: 3 at HMS, 23 total

What did a nominator or recommender say about this teacher?

• “What truly sets Michaelle apart is her rare combination of expertise, humility and service-oriented leadership. She inspires both students and adults not only through her deep knowledge, but through the joy, creativity and integrity she brings to her practice.” – a letter of recommendation from a science instructional coach
• “She consistently connects classroom learning with real-life applications, allowing students to genuinely see the applicability of what they are studying. This commitment to relevance transforms abstract concepts into tangible, meaningful knowledge, capturing the interest of all learners. [She has an] ability to connect with and deeply engage all students in the wonders of science.” – letter of recommendation from a district administrator

What does this teacher say? Michaelle says that her own experiences as a struggling learner with undiagnosed dyslexia and a lack of understanding from her teachers taught her “the importance of compassion and connection in education.” When a teacher laughed at her goal of going to college to become a teacher, she “became resolved to be the kind of educator who never dismisses a student’s potential – who listens, believes, and encourages, especially when a student doubts themselves or when others have doubted them … a child’s future should never be limited by someone else’s expectations.”

What else do we know? With grant money, Michaelle was able to buy tools for the Husky Hounds Weather Watch Project in which students collect, analyze and broadcast weather reports for the whole school. The project has boosted the students’ confidence; communication, collaboration and public speaking; knowledge of STEM, engineering design and meteorology; and critical thinking skills. It has also created a sense of community pride. In addition to teaching, Michaelle is also committed to serving her community as a first responder. She has served as an EMT and firefighter with the Monroe Township Fire Protection District for 38 years, where she currently holds the rank of Captain, charge of EMS.