There are few things Jacob Eitzen loves more than his beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers and mathematics. In his AP Statistics and Algebra 2 classes at Bellevue West High School, Eitzen goes beyond the traditional boundaries of instruction by infusing Husker trivia and game day stats into the mathematical concepts he teaches, creating an engaging and relatable learning experience for his students.
A leader both within his school and community, Eitzen is dedicated to forging connections with his students and their families. His creative use of data is evident in every aspect of his teaching approach. He leverages classroom statistics to craft targeted remedial lesson plans, ensuring that each student receives the support they need to thrive. Eitzen trains his colleagues to utilize the online intervention program Edmentum to monitor, track, and support students scoring below the 20th percentile on annual benchmark assessments. Additionally, he has instituted a data-driven tardy system, holding students accountable for their attendance and fostering a culture of responsibility.
Since taking the helm of AP Statistics, the class has seen remarkable growth in enrollment, expanding from 20 students to nearly 80 each year. Impressively, over half of the students in Eitzen’s statistics class consistently achieve passing scores of 3 or higher on the AP exam.
Beyond his love for Husker football and mind-bending math equations, Eitzen’s dedication to learning and leadership extends deeply to both his students and his community. He serves as a worship pastor at his local church, demonstrating a dedication to nurturing not only academic growth but also the personal development of those around him. Eitzen sponsors the school's National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta chapters as well as assists with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His leadership is also evident in his role as the head of Bellevue West's MTSS (multi-tiered system of support) team. This framework seamlessly integrates data and classroom instruction to maximize student achievement in both math and reading. Eitzen’s commitment to continuous growth and excellence is also highlighted by his recent participation in the Bellevue Public School Leadership Academy.
Eitzen received a Bachelor of Arts in secondary education - mathematics from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln in 2014 and a master’s degree in secondary mathematics in 2018 from the University of Nebraska - Omaha.
Press release: Bellevue West High School Math Teacher Receives $25,000 Milken Educator Award
