Columbus Blue Jackets October 2021 Teacher of the Month

Future GoalsTM Program

Columbus Blue Jackets October 2021 Teacher of the Month

Name:

Jennifer Barnes

School:

Tri-County North Middle School

Classroom Team:


Tell us about yourself!

This is my 20th year as a 7th and 8th grade Science teacher at Tri-County North Middle School. I’d wanted to be a teacher since 4th grade (grading papers seemed fun) and after a 7 year stint in the Air Force, I started teaching. What I love most about teaching is getting to know the students and seeing them succeed and when the lightbulb goes off when they truly understand what we’re talking about in class. I use to coach track and volleyball but adopting 3 kids of my own required a bit of my attention and time. Two of my children play sports locally and one is a gymnast, hence the reason I had to retire from coaching. I have also taken on the role of Yearbook Advisor, this is my 4th year being involved with that. I’ve been using Everfi for at least a few years, I love how it uses sports to teach various physical science concepts.

Who is your favorite NHL® player and why?

I’d say Sydney Crosby, only because my mom is a huge fan

What is your favorite part of the Future Goals™program? How do you see STEM in the game of hockey?

My favorite part of the Future Goals program is it a high interest activity especially for students who like sports and don’t often get to learn through using a sport. I see STEM in the game of hockey in designing new equipment that will be stronger, help players to be faster, and helping to prevent common injuries.

If you played hockey, what position would you play and why?

Probably goalie, then I wouldn’t have to skate as far as everyone else.